Starting a relationship with God can be exciting. It can also be overwhelming and confusing, especially for new believers. There are so many books in the Bible to read and so many things to learn. Which preachers do you listen to? What are you allowed or not allowed to do? But like any new venture you decide to start, the best way to get started is to pick a place to begin.
You will learn that a relationship with God is by far the most important part of knowing God. If your relationship lacks intimacy you will miss out on doing His will and His purpose.
You came across this page because you were looking to improve your devotional life. Or you’ve acknowledged that something was missing and that something was God. Perhaps you’re new to Christianity and wondering where to begin.
There is something I would like to share with you. Knowing God takes time. The second thing I want you to know is that Jesus is your map. His life is the blueprint for how we can develop a relationship with God.
Without a map how would you know where to go? Jesus answers this in John 14:6 “I am the truth, the way, and the life.”
Whether you’re new to Christianity, a seasoned Christian, or someone finding their way back to God anyone can experience spiritual burnout. When this happens there is a feeling of resistance toward God.
But when you reach a place in your life where you begin to question whether you trust Jesus, it’s best to allow Him to guide you. So, if you are ready to follow God or deepen your relationship with him then here are three things for you to consider:
The Bible Is A Guide For How We Relate to God
Remember that God does not change. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. And to truly know who God is, you must rely on His Word. Learn to trust the Word of God more than any other spiritual resource.
Seek understanding from ‘The Source’. It’s okay to read spiritual literature or seek counseling and guidance from spiritual leaders and mentors, but those who have a relationship with God learn to communicate with Him directly. Jesus made this possible for you when he died on the cross and sent the Holy Spirit to be your teacher.
“All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.” (John 16:13)
Focus On God
In Spiritual Growth: A Fresh Start With God three valuable insights about shifting your perspective are mentioned. One such perspective is shifting your focus. Take the load off yourself and put it on God.
A godly relationship requires humility and surrender. Recognize that you are embarking on a journey of faith and understanding. Being humble allows you to learn.
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:10)
I’m sure you would agree that we tend to drive ourselves into the ground assuming that the way we get closer to God is by what we do. When we feel as if we’re not spending enough time in prayer or studying the bible, we tend to think we’re not doing enough.
As you relate to God, you respond to Him and naturally you begin to adjust your life to Him.
This is why we give the first fruits of our day to the Lord. Give God your first and he will be pleased. Let God be the first person you talk to when you wake up. Let Him be the first person you consult when you need to make a decision. Let Him be the first person you run to in times of need. And when things go right, let Him be the first person to receive your thanks.
God’s Relationship With You Is Unique And Personal
Finally, when God wants to work in your life He will reveal Himself to you and work in you and through you. Your relationship with God is about God and you. How God talks to you is relative to you. The Bible is designed to help you understand God’s ways.
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” (John 10:27)
The closer you get to God the easier it will be to discern His voice and know what He is saying. You will know it’s Him because you’ve become familiar with Him. He delights in using ordinary people like you and me to accomplish His will.
Your journey with Him will shift you away from a self-centered life to a God-centered life.
Ultimately, the Bible is about God and who He is. Starting with God means building a relationship with Him. Become familiar with His character. Take the focus off yourself and put it on God. It’s not about what He can do, but about who He is and who you can become with Him. I believe that your life is meant to glorify God. Will you let Him use you?
Comment below if you have any advice for someone starting a relationship with God.