5 Powerful Ways to Feel Closer to God Right Now
[Adapted from Josh’s YouTube video]
Feeling distant from God can be confusing and discouraging. If you're longing to deepen your connection with Him, you're not alone. The good news? The Bible outlines simple yet transformative steps you can take immediately to draw nearer to God's presence. These five actions will not only renew your spirit but help you experience God's love and peace in undeniable ways.
Let's dive into the five things you can do today to feel closer to God.
1. Rejoice in All Circumstances
Life is full of challenges, but the Bible reminds us to pause and remember the good. James 1:17 tells us, "Every good and perfect gift is from above." When we cultivate gratitude and focus on God's blessings, our helps our hearts align with His goodness. Philippians 4:8 encourages us to dwell on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. This isn't about pretending life is perfect—it's about recognizing God's hand in every part of our journey.
Practical Step: Start a gratitude journal. Each day, write down three things you're thankful for. This simple habit shifts your perspective and opens your heart to God's presence.
2. Strive for Full Restoration
One of the biggest barriers to feeling close to God is unresolved conflict. Bitterness, unforgiveness, and resentment create distance not only between you and others but between you and God. Proverbs 14:30 says, "A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones." John takes it further, warning, "Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar" (1 John 4:20).
Practical Step: Ask God to reveal any broken relationships in your life. Take intentional steps to seek reconciliation, forgiveness, and peace with others.
3. Comfort One Another
The world offers temporary fixes for pain, but true comfort comes from God. 2 Corinthians 1:4 reminds us that God "comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble." When we serve, give, and extend Christ's love to others, we reflect God's heart and draw closer to Him.
Practical Step: Reach out to someone in need. Offer a listening ear, a word of encouragement, or practical help. Serving others reminds us of God's presence in our own daily life.
4. Pursue Unity and Humility
Division and pride are major obstacles to intimacy with God. Philippians 2:5-8 paints a powerful picture of Christ's humility, urging us to adopt the same mindset. Unity in Christ surpasses differences in opinion, politics, or background.
Practical Step: Examine your heart for pride or divisiveness. Pray for a spirit of humility and unity, seeking to prioritize Christ above personal ambitions or disagreements.
5. Live in God's Peace
True peace isn't the absence of trouble—it's the presence of God. Philippians 4:6-7 offers this promise: "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 minds in Christ Jesus."
Practical Step: When anxiety or stress arises, pause to pray. Hand your worries to God and trust that His peace will sustain you, even in the midst of life's storms. Need more ideas for any of these practical steps? Follow my Instagram for tips and inspiration.
Take the Next Step
As you reflect on these five ways to feel closer to God, ask Him to reveal areas in your life that need attention. Trust that as you seek Him, He will draw near to you.
If this resonated with you, consider subscribing for more content focused on growing your faith on YouTube. I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments and any ideas for future topics. Follow me on Instagram for tips and inspiration. Thank you for reading, and may you experience God's love and peace in powerful ways today.
