How to draw closer to God

When life is tough, and a lot is working against you, it’s easier to choose to draw away from God and not closer. It could be that this is easier to do because you would draw closer to tangible things or things that give you immediate but temporary relief from your pain and discomfort. But, unfortunately, you can’t touch and see God, and for some, it’s hard to relate to the idea of even hearing God’s voice.

Below are four ways to help you to draw closer to God.

God is real

Think about the wind; you can feel it and hear it but cannot see it. Yet it is real. The same goes for God. He is real. Coming closer to Him may not make sense to your physical self, but you can do a few things to help you draw closer to Him and know them. Just like the air we breathe, God is always there; all you need to do is make an effort to connect with Him.

Sing a song

There are so many songs in various genres that touch on topics relevant to all of us. When feeling down and out, search popular music platforms for Christian songs you know you can learn and sing to help comfort you.

I Am Youth Radio plays Christian music throughout the day, with special editions during the evening.

It can help you feel better as you listen and sing. Sometimes you won’t feel better instantly, but your participation in this does have a good impact on you because these lyrics are words that are jam-packed with hope and truth. Your heart and mind automatically mediate on these truths through song.

Pray

Prayer can be hard to commit to when you feel like the Person you are praying to doesn’t care about you, especially when circumstances and trials are rife. But he can see that you are hurt by what goes on. He sees you wholly. It may not seem fair, but it’s never a good idea to stop talking to your Parent because you feel they are allowing you to go through tough times.

Although you may not see it at that moment, He always allows you to grow through what you go through. He wants you to tell Him about your concerns, worries, fears, pain and hurt. Contrary to popular notions, you can ask Him questions. You do need to do this respectfully because He is still God. Throughout the Word, God invites us to pray, so clearly, He does want us to keep in touch with Him.

Connect with your people

God made us for community. The church folk you congregate with every week are your people. You may not be best buddies with every member of your church, but there are people who you should be able to share your heart’s weaknesses and sadness with. It’s ok for you to approach someone and say, “I need you to listen to what I have to say. I don’t want advice, please.” This may seem rude to some but having or building relationships with our people includes making uncomfortable requests like these.

People who care about you will want to try fixing things quickly for you to feel better. Their intentions are pure. You need to be brave enough to ask for the kind of support you need. It can be tough to make this request when approaching an elder in your church, so you must consider who you approach. Sometimes, it helps to chat with a stranger. However, it would help if you were cautious about who you approach.

You can also contact the Radio Pulpit Care Centre. For young people, there is free counselling available on I AM Youth.

God is near

God is always with you. It may not always feel like it, but He is. You can only notice Him if you draw closer to Him by being deliberate in doing things that will help you “see” Him in your life.

You don’t acknowledge Him or communicate with Him regularly, but you expect Him to do that for you. Wouldn’t that be considered a one-sided relationship? God is as close as your next breath. Make a habit of communion with Him and watch expectantly for how He will comfort you and work through your pains and hurts. It would help if you were willing to do your part in the relationship. God already does His.