Developing a personal relationship with God is deeply individual and personal. The moment we acknowledge our need for Him, admit our sinful nature, and in faith receive Jesus, then the journey begins. This kind of relationship with God calls for your vulnerability; your desire to be known by Him as you seek to know Him. It calls for fellowship, love, and trust. 

Out of love, you were created and God desires to have a personal relationship with you. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” 

Revelation 3:20 says, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock, if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come into him and eat with him and he with me.”

Matthew 11:28-29 says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavily laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

He is after you. There is a song I totally love and the worshiper sings, “…He leaves the ninety-nine to go after the one.” We serve a relational God! 

How then do you develop/nurture your personal relationship with God? Here are some ways

• Pray

Communication is essential when it comes to building relationships. The same applies to developing a personal relationship with God. A consistent prayer life, allows you to express yourself before God, pouring out your heart, expressing your frustrations, your wins, and your gratitude as well. When you draw near to Him, boldly and in confidence, He draws near to you!

• Study and meditate on the word of God

Learn the heart of God and deepen your understanding by delving deeper into His teachings through His Word which is rich in wisdom and guidance. Also, take some time to meditate on what you read and you can do this by journaling or sitting quietly with soft worship music playing in the background. Go ahead and pick up your flag too and wave it in worship to God during these moments of meditation.

• Join a small group

You cannot walk this journey alone. Join a small group of believers who will share in your wins and losses when it comes to building your personal relationship with God. The advantage of being part of a small group is that they keep you accountable and help you up every time you fall. Bible studies and community outreaches are some activities that small groups carry out that really deepen your relationship with God. Do you need support? Join the Inner Circle Facebook Group.

• Worship

Worship can take many forms. You might decide to sing hymns, wave your flag, dance in worship, or sit still in His presence. Oh, how refreshing His presence is!

Nurturing your personal relationship with God is never in vain. The benefits you encounter as a result of intentionally building this relationship are

• Peace– There is an inner sense of peace and contentment that you experience. The Bible says in Philippians 4:7, “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus…” You experience this kind of peace when you are in a relationship with God. You become like Him, walking in forgiveness and compassion, living a lifestyle of gratitude, trusting that He will fulfill His promises, and as a result, your hope comes alive!  
• Purpose– Being open to God’s guidance and trusting In His plan for your life, makes your purpose clearer and more fulfilling over time. God has promised that His thoughts for you are of good and not of evil to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11). Walking in the confidence of this promise gives you a sense of meaning even in the face of challenges because you are subscribed to His guidance. You are then able to live out your faith through service to others as you exercise your gifts. Stir up your day by getting your affirmation cards here.
• Fulfillment– The path to fulfillment may look different for everyone, and that is why you are encouraged to open yourself up to the leading of God. As long as you have a strong personal relationship with Him, you are able to walk in trust, finding joy in the present moment. Psalm 16:11 says, “You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Joy is in His presence and that is quite fulfilling! Psalms 37:4 reminds us that as long as we delight ourselves in the Lord, He will give us the desires of our hearts, and that brings forth fulfillment!

Developing a personal relationship with God is not a sprint, it is a marathon!

 It is lifelong! It requires patience, perseverance, and a heart that is open. It will not always be rosy, so do not be afraid to reach out and ask for help, guidance, or support along the way.  Above all else, trust God and His grace, and believe me, that is more than enough!