Have you ever had the conversation with yourself or with someone else about what it means to grow closer to God?
What does spiritual growth look like? Feel like? How about this one… What does it sound like?
Our relationship with God has similarities with other meaningful relationships that we have. In order to grow closer, we have to continue to work on it! We have to make continuous choices to develop good habits like continuous communication and spending quality time.
Spiritual maturity and growth require us to draw near to God regularly (daily).
Below are 5 prayers that focus on a pathway toward connectedness and closeness with God.
1. A Prayer for Rest
God,
In a world with a hectic pace that seems to glorify busyness, please help me to pace myself and slowdown. Change the way that I think, so that my highest priority is being in your presence. Help me to find a place and a pace that seeks rest, so that I can be replenished by you.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
2. A Prayer for Peace
God,
This world feels like it is in turmoil, constantly growing more and more tense. If I am not
careful, I can find myself abandoning your commands to love as the feelings of hostility
and hatred fill the air. Thank you for providing me with your peace, so that I can be at
peace and seek to be a peacemaker.
3. A Prayer for Clarity
God,
Often times life can be chaotic and confusing. And I admit that during those times, I tend to depend more on myself, my rational and reasoning, rather than your word and wisdom to make choices. Help me to remember that you want to hear from me and that you know where I need to go and what I need to do. Thank you for being willing to make yourself known to me as I seek your guidance as I make daily decisions.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
4. A Prayer for Serving
God,
You are so kind to me! Thank you for giving me so much, including your one and only Son! Thank you for saving my soul! And for teaching me the blessing of giving. Help me to seek to serve others instead of being consumed with satisfying myself. Change my heart so that my choices reflect your love for you children.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
5. A Prayer for Strength
God,
Thank you for your greatness! You are the source of my strength and the strength of my life! Help me to remember that when I feel weak, you have promised to make more of your strength available to me. Please do not allow me to become defeated by doubt, discouragement, or deception today. I want to plant my feet firmly in you.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen