Hey friends! I’ve been thinking lately about how often in Christian circles we throw around this phrase “personal relationship with God.” But what does that actually mean? And how do we grow that connection in daily life?
I want to break it down a bit, getting practical about the habits and postures that help our friendship with Jesus move from head knowledge to an intimate heart exchange. Because the reality is God desires so much more for us than surface-level religious routine. He wants to be our closest confidant and counselor.
First Things First: It’s Personal
The “personal” aspect means our spirit connects directly to God’s without any human intermediaries. Jesus tore down barriers to make a straight path to the Father through his atoning sacrifice on the cross. We can boldly approach God’s throne!
This also means the relationship looks different for everyone based on how God uniquely wired us. We each build history and trust in distinctive ways. So don’t worry about comparing your walk to anyone else’s. How friendship with Jesus unfolds for an extrovert may differ from an introvert. The key is putting in 1-on-1 time.
Cultivating Closeness
Okay, but what helps move things from stranger to intimate friend? How do we cultivate closeness? Consider these tips:
Chat Regularly – Set aside a regular time for reading Scripture, journaling prayers, and quieting our soul before God. Consistency develops trust and familiarity. Shoot for 5-10 minutes daily to start.
Listen More Than Talk – Come to God with open ears, not just bringing a laundry list of petitions and needs (though He invites those too!). Allow God to redirect your thoughts or reshape perspective.
Share Your Heart – Be authentic and vulnerable in expressing emotions, confessing sins and regrets, voicing fears or frustrations. Treat God like your closest confidant.
Recall Meaningful Moments – Remember times God clearly led, provided for a need miraculously, or gave you comfort during sorrow. Journal these and refer back. This builds resolve in God’s faithfulness.
Ask Good Questions – Inquire of God about decisions, the meaning behind circumstances, biblical wisdom for relationships, or clarification around spiritual matters confusing you. Consider what Jesus would say.
Linger in Stillness – After raising specific concerns or prayers to God, sit quietly. Allow space for God to impress thoughts, spark creativity, or speak through snippets of lyrics or Scripture floating in your spirit.
Walk in Obedience – As God convicts portions of your lifestyle not fully surrendered, respond promptly to align more with righteous ways. Obedience and intimacy intertwine closely.
I hope these tips give you a sense of how to nurture an ever-flourishing friendship with Jesus day to day! Set the intention to go deeper this semester. It may feel awkward at first, but hang in there. Learning the sound of God’s voice guiding your most important life choices will never let you down.
Reach out anytime if you want to chat more about this process! Wishing y’all the richest of journeys getting to know the God of the universe in deeper dimensions.
