Being a Christian can be challenging at times. When I was younger, I would see Christians who were so full of faith and captivated by Christ’s love, and I aspired to be like them, but at the same time, it made me feel discouraged about my personal relationship with Christ. I now realize that everyone is on their own journey in their relationship with God and that comparing my faith to someone else’s is like comparing apples to oranges. About two years ago, my relationship with God was just monotonous prayer, and although I felt connected to Him, I knew I wanted more. Over the past year I have been working on my relationship with God and I have listed below a few of the things I have done that have led me closer to Him and have helped me feel more fulfilled in my faith. I hope you enjoy!

1. Pray every morning & evening.

Each morning, pray about your upcoming day. Ask God for strength and favor, or simply just tell Him what’s going on in your life. Each evening, thank God for getting you through the day and pray a prayer of gratitude.

2. Realize that God is your friend, not your judge.

Some people think of God as a scary tyrant who is waiting for us to sin so He can punish us. But in reality, God loves you more than you could imagine and wants the best for you. Talk to God as if He is your best friend.

3. Go to God first in every situation.

I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase “Seek God first in everything that you do”, and to be honest with you, I don’t know how to apply that phrase to my faith life, but what I have been doing recently is speaking to God whenever something good or bad happens. If something amazing happens to you, just take a minute to thank God or if something bad happens to you, take a minute to ask for some extra help.

4. Read and memorize Bible verses.

I think of the Bible as God speaking directly to me. Find some Bible verses that you love and try to incorporate those messages into your life. Three of my favorite ones are:

-Phillipians 4:6

-Psalm 46:5

-2 Timothy 1:7

5. Write down Bible verses on sticky notes and hang them around your room or in your workspace.

I have four of my favorite Bible verses around my room, and I look to them in times of anxiety and I’m reminded that God has everything under control.

6. Listen to Christian music.

Find a style of Christian music that you enjoy. And if you’re not the biggest fan of Christian music, find one song you love and incorporate it into your daily playlist. (Mine is Gospel Medley by Destiny’s Child)

7. Read a faith filled book.

I am currently reading Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge and I would highly recommend it. Reading can be a way to gain greater insight into God, yourself, and your faith.

8. Share your faith with those who want to hear it.

Obviously, you don’t want to force your personal beliefs on others, but if someone wants to learn more about God, share your personal views on Christianity with them and help guide them on their journey.

9. Find someone who you admire for his/her faith and talk to them about God.

Share stories and discuss growth and places for improvement.

10. Realize that there is no such thing as a “perfect Christian” and create a relationship with God that brings you joy.

Once you realize this, you will be much more content with your personal relationship with God.

“I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.” – C.S Lewis