No matter how long you’ve been on this faith journey, you have heard talk of the importance of having a relationship with God. And if you haven’t, I’m going to tell you now. There is nothing more important in your Christian journey - in your LIFE, than having a real, vibrant relationship with Jesus. NOTHING. Isaiah says that: “...all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.” Isaiah 64:6 Trying to just be good and do good apart from a relationship with God, is not just useless, its GROSS.
So, how do I have this all important relationship? What in the world does it look like to have a relationship with a GOD? I’m so glad you asked. This is the first in a series about starting and deepening our relationship with God.
First let’s think about other relationships you have: with your children, your spouse, girlfriend or boyfriend, friends. They are all a little different aren’t they? But they all have something in common - you have to invest time and thought into keeping these relationships healthy. What if you never talked to your kids? What if you told your spouse once a year that you loved him/her? What if you never texted or called or reached out to a friend? I know this is obvious and simple, but it is sometimes the obvious that eludes us. You must invest in a relationship with Jesus. You must reach out and talk to him. Nurture the relationship.
Let me give you a little free marriage advice right here. When you wake up in the morning, say “Good Morning” to your spouse. You might even add in, “How did you sleep?”. When you go to bed at night, say “Good Night” to your spouse. You can even add in a little sweetness if you want, “Good Night, honey.” I always say, “Sleep Sweet” to my honey. Even if they aren’t with you in the bed - seek them out and greet them. It's just an acknowledgement - I see you and I’m glad we had another day together. We can take the people who live with us for granted - their presence is just always there, so this little trick just shows that you recognize them as a person before you start your day. Don’t let the first thing you say to the love of your life be a comment about the day or, heaven-forbid, a complaint or criticism. Don’t let the day end without that same recognition. It is a very small thing, but it matters. Do the same with your kids. Isn't "Good Morning" a nicer thing to wake up to than "GET UP!"?
So, our first step in having a vibrant relationship with God? Acknowledge His presence every morning and evening. I am not yet talking about devotions or prayer-sessions. I am literally talking about saying, “Good Morning, Lord”. and “Good Night, Lord.” You can even add in a bit more, “Good Morning, Lord, thank you for another day.” Or call him by the name He prefers, “Good Night, Father.” That’s it. If you are unsure about how to start this human/God relationship, everyday start and end with some acknowledgement that He is there. I have been doing this for years. It just felt natural. I’m sure many of you do the same. But it fosters the truth in my mind that God and I are in this together and He is always there with me. Try it this week.
