Are you cultivating your relationship with God?

A new year is always a good time for a check-in. So let’s check in today about our relationship with God. My first question to you might be- Do you want one?

I’m aware that not everyone believes in God. I’m also aware that all religions pray to the same God. There might be a different take on it, but when we are talking about who God IS, we are all talking to the same one, my prayer might just be in a different form than yours.

How do you view God? Do you have a relationship with him? Our relationship evolves over time. From my own experience, it’s different from when I was a child; it’s even different now from a few years ago. I have never doubted that God exists. At different points in my life I have asked questions, felt far away, and even had some choice words for my Creator.

We are the people that run from God, He doesn’t run from us. If you are a parent, you can probably identify. How many nights have you sat up waiting for your child to return home safe? Kids have to experience life, but don’t you love it when they come visit? God is like that. He’s just waiting for you to come visit and spend time with you, even if it’s only for a few minutes at a time.

So let’s be practical now- you are busy. How can you cultivate that relationship in your busy life? Here are a few ideas.

1. Read one Bible verse each morning/evening and spend a few minutes meditating on how it relates to you.
2. Spend 5 or more minutes in silence, just being with God.
3. Pray while you walk or workout. (I say a rosary while I walk each day)
4. Listen to an inspirational podcast while you exercise or commute.
5. If you have a commute, turn on Christian music and sing/pray along.
6. Pray while you do dishes or vacuum.
7. Spend a few minutes before going to sleep thanking God for all the blessings in your life that day.

There are lots of ways to incorporate a quick check-in with God each day. I’m sure there are people you talk to or text each day. If you are looking to cultivate a deeper relationship with God this year, make sure he is part of your “regulars”.