The past few years have been unprecedented. Between the pandemic, social unrest, corrupt politics, and coupe (and lack of proper prosecution for the leaders), we need this new year to be better. And what better way to get off on the right foot then creating goals that will bring you closer to God? In this article, we explore the common ways to strengthen your relationship with God:
Reading the Holy Bible
Praying
Speaking about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit to Others.
Attend or run a Bible Study.
Attend Church
1. Reading the Holy Bible
The Holy Bible contains hundreds even thousands of years of history. Our faith is based on the teachings of Jesus Christ, and the Holy Bible is written about God's laws and wishes for us. But not every Holy Bible is created equal. There are many different versions, and types that you can get. If you do not have one, you can always use online versions like this one here. However, nothing is quite like holding the right Holy Bible in your hand. To know if you have the right one, spend time in prayer, then go to your nearest Christian Store. Most places let you lay out the Holy Bibles in front of you. When you get to the right one, a feeling will come over you. This is the Holy Spirit leading you.
What about study bibles? I use a NKJV Study Bible, but my husband does not like study bibles. Here is the thing, they reveal historical information that can be key to understanding the passages. Yes, the Holy Spirit will give you wisdom when you pray for it. But to be honest, I had no idea why capturing idols was so important until I read historical facts in my study bible. It was symbolic of winning the battle a crucial element for the people back then.
If you are wondering about some Biblical passages about reading the Holy Bible, here are a few for you:
"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every decent work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
“Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.” Proverbs 30:5.
2. Praying
The act of praying is essential not only for you, but your soul as well. Getting on your knees and crying out to God will bring you closer to Him. However, when should you pray? I always pray at night, when the day is done, but there are others who pray in the morning, the afternoon, and/or night. Try to find a time with which you can stick to.
What should I pray for? The Holy Bible says to confess sins. See Daniel 9:20, "I was speaking, praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel." Ask for what comes to your heart. You may need emotional healing from things that have hurt you in the past. You may need help coming to a life changing decision. If this is the case, ask for wisdom in such matters. Perhaps you want to pray for salvation over a friend or family member.
Is it okay to write down my prayers? This is the book of Psalms (prayers and praises). I honestly do not see any harm in writing your prayers. There are prayer notebooks that you can get if you so choose.
3. Fasting
Fasting is particularly important because it moves the heart of God. I will be perfectly honest with you; I have only been able to do this once or twice since becoming Christian. My will is incredibly weak. But there are many types of fasts that you can do. You may want to read the fasting article that I previously posted, and the Daniel Fast article that I posted. Fasting can be safe for those with Diabetes or other health complications, but you should speak with your doctors about any plans to fast before you commit.
4. Speaking about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit to Others
I remember one day; I was talking to God in my bedroom. I asked God, "How c
an I possibly talk about You to people with other faiths or no faith? I am not someone that is pushy." God told me to talk about all that He has done for me. Salvation is one of the key things to discuss, but what about answered prayers? I thought that this was key, so I started talking about God to anyone that would listen. Some Christians, some Atheists, even some that practice hinduism. The reactions were always surprising. Moments of silents would take place and I knew that people were listening. Some were surprised by what I had said. Did this convert the Atheists and Hindus that I spoke to? No, but it set understanding for them in the Christian basis, and they will convert in the future.
5. Attend or Run a Bible Study
The benefit to COVID, was the ability to reach the world via the internet. There are virtual bible studies that you can access. Finding these can be a challenge. But what is stopping you from starting a bible study? Your community, family, and friends, or even your church needs it.
6. Attend Church
This is understood, Jesus Christ loved the church. Look at what Paul wrote in Ephesians:
"Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. (Ephesians 5:26-27).
However, not all churches preach the proper doctrine on Jesus Christ. Check out their website before attending and determine their principals. If they get Jesus Christ wrong, it does not matter what they get right, for they are false prophets. Walk away and stay away. Make sure the church is filled with the Holy Spirit. Speak up when something is wrongly said. You may be punished in church, but the reward for you in heaven is great.
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