The topic of God can often become complicated. For some, He is one who punishes. Others see Him as unreachable. Sadly, there are those who think of Him as a “genie” who grants wishes through prayer. These are dangerous and could ultimately lead to a fractured relationship with our Savior.
Truth is, as much as God wants to be treated with reverence, He craves for us to know Him as a father. Sure, He punishes justly, but He is forgiving. He is present in everything around us. He grants our desires, but only for our good and as part of His plans. He wants what’s best for all of us, and if we do allow him in, He can create miracles and, in turn, breathe new life into us.
Here are five habits to have a healthy relationship with God.
1. Pray
Prayer is something we all do as Christians. The crucial part here is we make it more intimate, like how we talk to our dad or any loved one. Praying is a direct line to God and He wants us to talk to Him. Don’t be scared to share your day, regardless of what happened. No matter what you’re feeling, tell Him. Pray by yourself, pray with others, pray over others, have people pray over you! God listens and yes, He answers! No ghosting here.
2. Love your neighbors
Right after the Lord commands us to love God, He tells us to love people. It is the second greatest commandment and should be followed, even to those we disagree with. But aside from that, this is also an opportunity to see and feel Him even more. We are all created in His image and likeness, no exceptions. Yes, there’s a thing called social distancing, but there are ways around that.
3. Silence
This isn’t meant to push you to a life of being a hermit. Rather, this is a reminder that He is a God of silence. In our silent moments, this is His chance to talk just like how we do in prayer. Providing space in solitude is creating space for Him to move. So, listen up and pay attention. Just like in any other relationship, a good one is built on love and great communication.
4. Understand the Bible
The Bible will always be a relevant book no matter what time period we are in. It’s more than just “the good news,” it’s a guide on how to live life and a testament of His great love for us. Instead of simply reading and memorizing what’s on there, understand the text. Learn the historical contexts, the authors, and the stories. That way it sticks to the heart and soul, and not just to the mind.
5. Be you
Being in the presence of God doesn’t mean we have to be formal at all times. God calls us to be ourselves around Him, to see the real us instead of just a rigid follower. He has also given us individual spiritual gifts that can come together to glorify Him. At the end of the day, we are His children. He loves and cares about us above all. So, follow him, and in the process include Him in everything you do.
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.” – Revelation 3:20
