Nurturing a deep personal relationship with Jesus is the cornerstone of our Christian faith. We can cultivate habits that keep us connected to Jesus, allowing His presence to permeate every aspect of our lives. Here are some daily practices that have helped me strengthen my relationship with the Lord.
I start each day by putting Jesus first. Before I check my phone or email, I’ll have my time with Jesus. I sing a song of praise and express my gratitude. This simple act of worship and thanksgiving shifts my focus to God and helps fill me with His peace and joy. It’s a powerful reminder that He is worthy of all honor and glory, regardless of my circumstances.
Gratitude transforms our perspective and opens our hearts to the goodness of God. Each day, I write down at least five things I am thankful for in my gratitude journal. Whether it’s a beautiful sunrise, a kind word from a friend, or an answered prayer, acknowledging my blessings reminds me of God’s faithfulness. This habit helps me focus on the positive aspects of life, reinforcing my trust in Jesus and His provision.
Before diving into my work, I take a moment to pray over my “to do” list. I ask the Lord for guidance, wisdom, and strength to accomplish what needs to be done. This practice not only helps me prioritize my tasks, but it also reminds me that I am not alone in my endeavors. By seeking His direction, I can approach my day with confidence, knowing that He is with me every step of the way.
I am determined to stay close to Jesus throughout the day by looking to Him for guidance and thanking Him when things work out well. This continuous dialogue with Jesus keeps me attuned to His presence and helps me navigate challenges with trust and reliance on Him. Whether it’s a quick prayer for patience or a moment of gratitude for a small blessing, these intentional pauses keep my relationship with Jesus vibrant and alive.
Jesus calls us to love and serve others, reflecting His love in our actions. I try to do acts of kindness every day, whether big or small. This could be helping a neighbor, volunteering at a local charity, or simply offering a listening ear to someone in need. Serving others keeps my heart aligned with Jesus’ heart and helps me live out His command to love one another as He has loved us (John 15:12).
Ending my day with Jesus is as important as starting it with Him. Each evening, I spend time reflecting on the day, thanking the Lord for His blessings, and confessing any sins. I ask for His forgiveness and for guidance for the next day. This practice helps me to end the day with my heart at peace, resting in His grace and preparing for a fresh start the next morning.
Developing these daily habits has helped deepen my relationship with Jesus. They keep me grounded in His Word, attuned to His voice, and aware of His presence. By prioritizing time with Jesus each day, I am reminded of His love, grace, and purpose for my life, which not only strengthens my faith, but also helps me be a vessel of His love and light for others.