Growing Closer to God, One Step at a Time

A strong relationship with God takes time and intentional effort, just like any meaningful relationship. Spending time with Him deepens your faith.

Here are five simple yet powerful steps to grow closer to God

1. Incorporate Daily Periods of Prayer and Bible Study

Before starting your day, take a moment to connect with God. Say a prayer and read the Bible to set a positive tone for the day ahead. This simple habit helps you stay focused, find peace, and seek His guidance in everything you do.

By setting aside a good chunk of time each day dedicated to prayer and Bible study, we cultivate a deeper connection with God. Whether you find solace in the quiet of early morning or the stillness of late night, establishing a consistent routine is key. For me, the hours between 1 am and 4am work best, allowing me to express myself or stay still to hear what God has for me. Of course, life can be unpredictable, and missed days are inevitable. The goal is not perfection but a genuine desire to connect with God and build a relationship with the Holy Spirit.

📖 “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” Psalm 5:3

Why Morning Prayer and Bible Study Matter

✅ Strengthens Your Faith

Spending time with God first thing in the morning gives you a chance to pass your plans before Him for the perfect opportunity to get Him involved

✅ Brings Clarity and Peace

Life is full of distractions, but starting your day in prayer helps you focus on what truly matters.

✅ Invites God’s guidance:

When you seek Him first, you gain wisdom to navigate your daily challenges.

💡 Quick Tip: Keep a Bible or devotional near your bed so it’s the first thing you reach for in the morning.

2. Talk to God Throughout the Day

Spiritual growth isn’t limited to a designated time slot—it’s a continuous conversation with God. Beyond your dedicated prayer and study time, keep that connection alive by talking to Him throughout the day. Whisper prayers in moments of gratitude, seek His wisdom in tough decisions, and simply share your thoughts as you go about your routine.

This means pausing to acknowledge His presence in small moments—whether I’m working, running errands, or simply sitting in stillness. Some days, I have deep, intentional prayers; other times, it’s as simple as saying, 'Lord, guide me.' The goal isn’t to follow a rigid structure but to cultivate an ongoing relationship with the Holy Spirit.

📖 “Pray without ceasing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Why Constant Prayer Matters

✅ Keeps You Spiritually Grounded

Talking to God throughout the day shifts your focus from worries to faith.

✅ Strengthens Your Relationship with God

Just like any meaningful relationship, consistent communication builds intimacy.

✅ Brings Comfort and Direction

Knowing that God is with you in every moment provides peace and clarity.

💡 Quick Tip: Set gentle reminders—like a phone notification or sticky note—to pause and acknowledge God’s presence in your day.

3. Worship and Give Thanks

Worship isn’t just about singing in church—it’s a lifestyle. It’s about recognizing God’s goodness in every moment and responding with gratitude. Whether through music, prayer, or simply pausing to appreciate His blessings, worship shifts our focus from our problems to His power.

Worship often happens in the quiet moments—when I’m reflecting on His faithfulness, listening to worship songs, or simply whispering, “Thank You, Lord.” Gratitude changes everything. Even on difficult days, choosing to praise God reminds me that He is always in control.

📖 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Why Worship and Gratitude Matter

✅ Deepens Your Relationship with God

Worship draws you closer to His presence and strengthens your faith.

✅ Shifts Your Mindset

Focusing on what you have rather than what you lack brings joy and contentment.

✅ Invites God’s Peace

Gratitude keeps your heart aligned with His will, even in challenging seasons.

💡 Quick Tip: Create a “Gratitude Journal” to write down daily blessings, big or small, and turn them into prayers of thanksgiving.

Giving Thanks in Every Season

Even in difficult times, we are called to give thanks. Gratitude isn’t about ignoring struggles but trusting that God is working all things for our good.

📖 “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” -1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

No matter what you’re facing today, take a moment to worship and thank God. His love never fails, and His presence is always near. 💛

4. Surround Yourself with God’s Presence

God’s presence isn’t confined to a church building—it’s something we can experience every day, no matter where we are. It’s about intentionally creating an environment that keeps your heart and mind focused on Him.

For me, this means filling my space with worship music, reading Scripture, and surrounding myself with people who encourage my faith. Even the smallest choices—like what I listen to, watch, or read—can help me stay connected to God. When I intentionally invite His presence into my daily life, I feel His peace, guidance, and strength more clearly.

📖 “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” — Jeremiah 29:13

Ways to Invite God’s Presence into Your Life

✅ Fill Your Surroundings with Worship

Play worship music, listen to sermons, or meditate on Scripture throughout the day.

✅ Be Mindful of What You Consume

What we watch and listen to shapes our thoughts—choose content that draws you closer to God.

✅ Stay Connected with Faithful Community

Surround yourself with people who uplift and challenge you spiritually.

💡 Quick Tip: Create a playlist of worship songs that help you feel God’s presence and play it during your daily routine.

God’s Presence Brings Peace and Strength

No matter what challenges you face, remembering that God is with you changes everything. His presence brings comfort in hard times and joy in every season.

📖 “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence, there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” - Psalm 16:11

5. Obey and Trust Him Fully

Trusting God isn’t just about believing in Him—it’s about surrendering every part of our lives to His will. Obedience and trust go hand in hand. When we follow His Word, even when it’s difficult or unclear, we demonstrate our faith in His perfect plan.

Obedience isn’t always easy. There are times when I don’t fully understand what God is doing, but I’ve learned that His ways are always higher than mine. When I choose to trust Him completely—whether in big decisions or daily choices—I find peace, knowing He is leading me where I need to be.

📖 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” — Proverbs 3:5-6

Why Obedience and Trust Matter

✅ Aligns Your Life with God’s Purpose

Following His guidance leads to a life of fulfillment and spiritual growth.

✅ Brings Peace Amid Uncertainty

Trusting God removes the burden of trying to control everything on your own.

✅ Opens Doors to His Blessings

Obedience positions you to receive the good things He has in store.

💡 Quick Tip: When facing a tough decision, pause and pray before acting. Ask God for wisdom and trust that He will lead you in the right direction.

God’s Promises for Those Who Obey and Trust Him

💛 Isaiah 1:19: “If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land.”

💛 Psalm 37:5: “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will act.”

As you go through your day, staying connected with God can bring peace and clarity. If you desire a deeper relationship with Him, I have a free guide that can help. Download "Developing Intimacy with God" to learn practical steps for growing your faith and strengthening your spiritual connection. Get it here: https://abide.shebuildslegacy.co/develop-intimacy

A Lifelong Journey of Faith

Strengthening your relationship with God isn’t about perfection—it’s about consistency and a sincere heart. Keep seeking Him daily, and you’ll experience His presence more sincerely.

Which of these steps will you take today? Let’s grow in faith together! 🙏💛