5 Tested Fundamentals about Relationship Growth is from the series that explores the 13 Prayers Kathy Shaull prays for her readers.
The prayer:
That you would grow your relationship with God.
Why it matters:
God cares about your growth.
You don’t want to be stagnant or lukewarm. (Rev. 3:16) “So, because you are lukewarm – neither hot nor cold – I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” Instead, you need to grow. So, keep moving and improving.
The 5 Fundamentals about Relationship Growth:
- Relationship growth requires Time. Like any human relationship, the only way to draw closer to God is to invest your time. Time in scripture, in prayer, in worship, in quiet stillness just sitting in His presence.
- Relationship growth requires Service. James 2:17 says, “Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself.” We are to follow Christ’s example. He came to love and serve.
- Relationship growth requires Gratitude. This feels like a no-brainer, but it amazes me how few Christians take time to show growth by a daily acknowledgement of what God has done for them. In the past 24 hours, has God kept you safe during travel? Or warm during a winter storm? Provided a means for food or good health? Or time with a loved one? Thank Him for the little things. What if you woke up tomorrow with only the things you thanked God for today? Such a sobering question… “My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God will not despise.” Ps. 51:17
- Relationship growth requires Perseverance. Sometimes real growth comes in the waiting – the “I’ll ask again, God, because this is important to me.” It’s not that you’re nagging God. He sometimes sets us on a path that feels like we’re walking in circles. (See my thoughts on circle walking here.) And sometimes as a means for the true growth of faith, He wants us to ask more than once.
- Relationship growth requires Love. In John 14:23, Jesus said, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.” True love of God means obedience. We are His ambassadors. Our love for God must translate into love for others. So, take time today to show love.
Invest today.
Time. Service. Gratitude. Perseverance. Love. Just a little will transform your relationship with God.
Dear Father, remind us just how much You crave a true relationship with us. Make it easier today for us to invest in relationship growth with You.
Thanks for dropping by today. Look for me on social media as @13Prayers. You can find the other prayers here.
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