In our fast-paced world, developing a closer relationship with God spiritually is an admirable goal and can offer peace, purpose, and direction. With everything happening around us, it can be super challenging to develop that strong connection with our maker.
So, if you’re searching for how to get closer to God spiritually, you’re not alone, as all of us could stand to improve our relationship with the Lord and draw nearer to Him. Whether you’re beginning your spiritual journey or seeking to deepen your existing relationship with the divine, there are numerous ways to grow closer to God.
In this detailed guide, we will explore 20 practical and spiritual methods, with scriptural backings, to enhance your relationship with God and experience His presence more profoundly.
How To Get Closer To God Spiritually in 2024
1. Prayer
Prayer is an open line of communication with God, allowing you to express your thoughts, concerns, and gratitude, and seek guidance. It allows believers to build a personal relationship with Him and opens their hearts to His will.
As one of the spiritual ways of getting closer to God, set aside time each day for prayer. Speak to God honestly and openly, and listen for His response. Use structured prayers, like the Lord’s Prayer, or speak from your heart. Jesus emphasized the importance of prayer in the scriptures.
Matthew 6:6, “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
2. Study the Bible
Another important step to getting closer to God is reading and studying the Bible. The Bible is God’s Word, providing wisdom, guidance, and insight into His character and will. Regular bible study helps you understand His messages and apply them to your life.
Dedicate time daily to read and study the Bible. Join a Bible study group or use devotional guides to help you understand and apply the scriptures to your life.
Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path,”
This scripture highlights the importance of scripture in guiding our lives.
3. Worship
Worship is another way to develop a strong connection with God. It is a way to honor and glorify God, deepening your spiritual connection. It acknowledges His greatness and opens your heart to His presence.
To make the most of your journey to divine connectivity, attend church services, participate in worship music, and spend time in personal worship through singing, playing an instrument, or listening to worship songs on music streaming platforms like YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, etc.
John 4:24 states, “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”
4. Meditation on Scripture
Meditating on God’s Word allows you to internalize His teachings and draw closer to Him. It provides spiritual nourishment and strengthens your faith.
Choose a scripture passage and spend time reflecting on its meaning and application to your life. Allow God’s Word to speak to your heart.
Joshua 1:8 encourages us, “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”
5. Fasting
Fasting is a powerful of connecting with God spiritually. It helps you focus on God, seek His guidance, and grow spiritually. It’s a form of self-discipline that brings you closer to the divine.
Fasting must always be accompanied by prayers. Dedicate a set time to fast, pray, and seek God. Jesus spoke about fasting in Matthew 6:16-18, emphasizing its importance in spiritual growth.
Matthew 6:16-18, “Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.
6. Acts of Service
Serving others is a tangible way to express God’s love and grow in your faith. It reflects Christ’s love and compassion. Volunteer at your church, participate in community service or help someone in need. Acts of kindness reflect God’s love and compassion.
Galatians 5:13 says, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
7. Fellowship with Other Believers
Another way of building a strong spiritual connection with God is by fellowshipping with other believers. Fellowship provides support, encouragement, and accountability in your spiritual journey. It strengthens your faith and builds a sense of community.
Join a small group, attend church events, and build relationships with other Christians. Share your experiences and grow together in faith.
Hebrews 10:24-25 advises, “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.“
8. Journaling
Journaling helps you reflect on your spiritual journey and recognize God’s work in your life. It’s a powerful tool for personal growth and introspection. Write down your prayers, thoughts, and experiences. Reflect on how God has answered prayers and guided you.
Psalm 77:11-12 highlights the importance of remembering God’s deeds: “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.”
9. Confession and Repentance
Confession and repentance restore your relationship with God and bring spiritual renewal. They cleanse your heart and align you with God’s will. Regularly confess your sins to God and seek His forgiveness. Turn away from sinful behaviors and seek to live a holy life.
1 John 1:9 assures us, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
10. Reading Christian Literature
Another way of building a strong relationship with God is by reading Christian literature for your spiritual edification. Christian books and articles provide insight, encouragement, and a deeper understanding of faith. They can inspire and challenge you to grow spiritually.
Read books by trusted Christian authors, subscribe to faith-based blogs and podcasts, and explore theological works that inspire and challenge you.
Proverbs 4:7 states, “Wisdom is the principal thing; Therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.”
11. Practicing Gratitude
Gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to the blessings you have, fostering a closer relationship with God. It cultivates a heart of thankfulness and joy. Keep a gratitude journal, regularly thank God for His blessings, and express appreciation for the good in your life.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 encourages us, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
12. Seeking God’s Will
Aligning your life with God’s will leads to a deeper, more fulfilling relationship with Him. It helps you make decisions that honor Him. Pray for guidance, seek wisdom in scripture, and be attentive to the Holy Spirit’s prompting in your decisions.
Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
13. Spending Time in Nature
Nature reveals God’s creation and can bring you closer to Him through its beauty and tranquility. It provides a peaceful environment for reflection and prayer. Spend time outdoors, reflect on God’s creation, and use nature as a backdrop for prayer and meditation.
Psalm 19:1 declares, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
14. Listening to Sermons and Podcasts
Sermons and podcasts offer biblical teaching and inspiration to deepen your faith. They provide spiritual nourishment and practical advice for daily living. Listen to sermons online, subscribe to Christian podcasts, and incorporate these teachings into your daily routine.
Romans 10:17 reminds us, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
15. Spiritual Retreats
Retreats provide focused time away from daily distractions to seek God and grow spiritually. They offer an opportunity for deep reflection and renewal. Attend a spiritual retreat organized by your church or create your own personal retreat. Use this time for prayer, reflection, and renewal.
Mark 6:31 shows Jesus’ practice: “And He said to them, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.'”
16. Memorizing Scripture
Memorizing scripture embeds God’s Word in your heart, providing strength and guidance in times of need. It helps you recall God’s promises and principles. Start with key verses that resonate with you. Use flashcards, apps, or repetition to help you memorize and recall scripture.
Psalm 119:11 says, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
17. Mentorship and Discipleship
Having a mentor or disciplining someone else provides mutual growth and accountability. It fosters spiritual development and community. Seek a mentor who can guide you in your faith, or become a mentor to someone else. Share experiences, study scripture together, and pray for one another.
2 Timothy 2:2 instructs, “And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”
18. Living a Life of Integrity
One of the best ways to get closer to God spiritually is by living a life of integrity as it reflects God’s character and strengthens your witness to others. It aligns your actions with biblical values and builds trust. Strive to live according to biblical principles in all areas of your life. Be honest, just, and compassionate in your actions.
Proverbs 10:9 states, “He who walks with integrity walks securely, But he who perverts his ways will become known.”
Living a life of integrity means consistently aligning your actions with God’s Word, even when it’s difficult or inconvenient.
19. Practicing Forgiveness
Forgiveness is central to Christian faith and healing relationships. It releases you from bitterness and opens the door to peace and reconciliation. Forgive those who have wronged you and seek forgiveness from those you have wronged. Let go of grudges and embrace God’s grace.
Colossians 3:13 advises, “Bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.”
Practicing forgiveness involves prayerfully asking God to help you let go of anger and extend grace, just as He has extended grace to you.
20. Embracing the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit empowers and guides you in your spiritual journey. He provides wisdom, comfort, and strength, helping you to live a life that honors God. Pray for the Holy Spirit’s presence and guidance in your life. Be open to the Spirit’s leading and cultivate a sensitivity to His promptings.
Galatians 5:22-23 describes the fruits of the Spirit: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”
Embracing the Holy Spirit means daily surrendering to His guidance and allowing His presence to transform your thoughts, attitudes, and actions.
Final Thoughts on How to Get Closer to God Spiritually
Drawing closer to God spiritually requires intentionality, commitment, and openness to His presence. By incorporating these 20 practices into your daily life, you can deepen your relationship with God and experience His love, guidance, and peace in profound ways.
Start today by choosing one or two of these methods to incorporate into your routine. As you grow in your spiritual journey, continue to explore and add new practices that bring you closer to God.
“Come near to God and He will come near to you.” – James 4:8
Embrace these practices and watch as your relationship with God transforms and flourishes.
