soul journey 
When you not only believe in God but actively work to stay close to Him and trust Him, the blessings you receive are both profound and transformative. You gain a deep sense of peace that surpasses understanding, even in the face of trials, as you trust in His plan and presence. Philippians 4:7 reminds us of this peace: “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Staying close to God nurtures a stronger faith, guiding you to make wise decisions and giving you the strength to endure life’s challenges. You feel the reassurance of His unfailing love, knowing you are never alone, as promised in Deuteronomy 31:6: “He will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Growing your trust and staying close to God requires intentionality, practice, and a heart open to His guidance. Here are practical ways to deepen your relationship with Him:
1. Spend Time in Prayer
- Prayer is a conversation with God. Share your joys, worries, and desires with Him daily.
- Listen for His voice and guidance in moments of quiet. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer for His peace. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
2. Study God’s Word
- Dive into the Bible to understand His promises and character. Scriptures like Proverbs 3:5-6 teach us to trust in Him fully. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
- Meditate on verses that resonate with your current challenges to build your faith.
3. Worship Regularly
- Worship helps align your heart with God’s greatness and reminds you of His presence.
- Whether through song, reflection, or gratitude, worship fosters closeness.
4. Surround Yourself with Believers
- Fellowship with others who share your faith can encourage and support your spiritual journey.
- Attend church, join Bible study groups, or find a trusted mentor to walk alongside you.
5. Practice Gratitude
- Reflect on God’s faithfulness in your life by listing the blessings He has given.
- Gratitude shifts your focus from fear to trust, reinforcing your reliance on Him.
6. Trust Him with Small Steps
- Start by trusting God in small decisions and situations. As you see His faithfulness, it becomes easier to surrender bigger areas of your life.
- Psalm 37:5 says, “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will do this.”
7. Obey God’s Commands
- Actively living out His Word shows your trust in His wisdom and love. Obedience brings you closer to Him and aligns your heart with His will.
8. Reflect on God’s Faithfulness
- Look back at how God has guided and provided for you in the past. Remembering His faithfulness strengthens your trust for the future.
- Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds us that God’s mercies are new every morning. “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”
9. Be Patient in Trials
- Trust grows in the midst of challenges when you rely on God’s strength. James 1:2-4 encourages us to see trials as opportunities to deepen our faith. “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
- Know that His timing is perfect, and He is working for your good.
10. Invite God Into Every Aspect of Your Life
- Whether in joy or struggle, involve Him in your decisions, relationships, and daily routines.
- A constant awareness of His presence helps you stay close to Him.
As you consistently take these steps, your relationship with God will deepen, your trust in Him will grow, and you will experience the blessings of walking closely with Him every day.
Trusting God opens your heart to His provision, aligning your desires with His will. It fosters gratitude for His blessings—both seen and unseen—and cultivates hope for the future. As you walk closely with Him, you experience joy, spiritual growth, and the fulfillment of living with purpose, knowing that His plans for you are good (Jeremiah 29:11). Above all, staying close to God deepens your relationship with Him, granting you the ultimate blessing of His presence in your life.
