How can I get closer to God?

Drawing closer to God is a profound journey that involves the heart, mind, and soul. It is a transformative process that reshapes our lives, bringing us into deeper communion with the Creator. As a non-denominational Christian pastor, I believe that this journey is both deeply personal and universally accessible. Let us explore the various dimensions of getting closer to God, rooted in Scripture and enriched by the wisdom of Christian tradition.

To begin with, it is important to recognize that God desires a relationship with us. This is not merely a one-sided pursuit; God actively seeks us out. In James 4:8, we are given a beautiful promise: "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." This verse encapsulates the reciprocal nature of our relationship with God. As we take steps towards Him, He meets us with open arms, ready to engage us in a loving and transformative relationship.

One of the most foundational ways to draw closer to God is through prayer. Prayer is not just a ritualistic activity but a dynamic conversation with God. It is an opportunity to express our deepest thoughts, fears, and desires, and to listen for God's guidance and reassurance. Jesus Himself modeled the importance of prayer. In Mark 1:35, we read, "Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed." By setting aside dedicated time for prayer, we follow Jesus' example and create space in our lives for God to speak to us.

Another essential practice is engaging with Scripture. The Bible is God's Word and serves as a primary means through which He communicates with us. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, we learn that "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." By regularly reading and meditating on Scripture, we allow God's truths to shape our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. The Psalms, for instance, are a rich resource for prayer and reflection, offering words of praise, lament, and trust that can guide our own spiritual expressions.

Worship is another vital component of drawing closer to God. Worship is more than singing songs; it is an attitude of the heart that acknowledges God's greatness and responds with reverence and adoration. In John 4:23-24, Jesus explains, "Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and His worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth." Worshiping in spirit and truth means engaging our whole being—our emotions, intellect, and will—in the act of honoring God. Whether through corporate worship in a church setting or personal moments of praise, worship draws us into God's presence and aligns our hearts with His.

Community is also a crucial aspect of our spiritual journey. Christianity is not a solitary faith; it is lived out in the context of relationships with other believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Being part of a faith community provides support, accountability, and opportunities for growth. It is within the community that we can share our struggles, celebrate our victories, and learn from the experiences of others.

Service is another powerful way to draw closer to God. Jesus taught that serving others is a reflection of our love for Him. In Matthew 25:40, He says, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." Acts of service, whether within the church or in the broader community, allow us to embody Christ's love and compassion. Serving others shifts our focus from ourselves to the needs of those around us, helping us to grow in humility and selflessness.

Another important aspect of growing closer to God is cultivating a heart of gratitude. Gratitude shifts our perspective from what we lack to the blessings we have received. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Paul exhorts us, "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." By developing a habit of thankfulness, we become more aware of God's presence and provision in our lives. Keeping a gratitude journal or regularly expressing thanks in prayer can help us maintain an attitude of gratitude.

Silence and solitude are also valuable practices for deepening our relationship with God. In our fast-paced, noisy world, it can be challenging to find moments of quiet reflection. Yet, it is often in the stillness that we can hear God's voice most clearly. Psalm 46:10 reminds us, "Be still, and know that I am God." Setting aside time for silence and solitude allows us to disconnect from distractions and attune our hearts to God's presence. Whether through a silent retreat, a quiet walk in nature, or simply sitting in stillness, these moments of quiet can be profoundly restorative and spiritually enriching.

It is also important to address the role of obedience in our relationship with God. Jesus said in John 14:15, "If you love me, keep my commands." Obedience is a tangible expression of our love for God and our trust in His wisdom. It involves aligning our actions with His will, even when it is difficult or counter-cultural. As we obey God's commands, we experience the blessings of living in harmony with His design for our lives. This obedience is not about legalism but about a heartfelt response to God's love and grace.

In addition to these practices, it is essential to seek God's guidance through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is our Counselor, Comforter, and Guide, leading us into all truth. In John 16:13, Jesus promises, "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth." By being attentive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, we can discern God's will and direction for our lives. This requires a posture of openness and a willingness to follow where the Spirit leads.

Lastly, it is important to remember that drawing closer to God is a journey, not a destination. It is a lifelong process of growth and transformation. There will be times when we feel close to God and times when He seems distant. During the dry seasons, it is important to persevere in our spiritual practices and trust in God's faithfulness. As the Psalmist declares in Psalm 42:1, "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God." This longing for God is a sign of our deep desire for Him, and it is a desire that He delights to fulfill.

In conclusion, drawing closer to God involves a multifaceted approach that includes prayer, engagement with Scripture, worship, community, service, gratitude, silence, solitude, obedience, and attentiveness to the Holy Spirit. Each of these practices helps to cultivate a deeper relationship with God, transforming our lives and drawing us into closer communion with Him. As we embark on this journey, let us be encouraged by the promise that as we draw near to God, He will draw near to us, enveloping us in His love and grace.