Devotionals for the Heart: How to build a deeper connection with God

Building a Deeper Connection with God
A devotional by Dr. Gladys Childs

“So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.”—1 John 4:16 (ESV)

I’m a writer, speaker and a leader. But, to be completely honest, I am an introvert.

During the Covid pandemic, I was happy as can be staying in my house day after day. I struggle to make deeper connections with others. However, I have learned if I want to make deeper connections, I must act intentionally. Intentionality matters in relationships. This is true when it comes to our relationship with God.

Have you ever wondered how to deepen your connection with God? Well, you're not alone. Building a deeper connection with God is a journey of love, compassion, and most importantly, devotion. I believe there are four building blocks to creating that deep connection we crave.

Building Block #1: The Foundation of Love

Let’s talk about love. Not just any love, but the kind that forms the essence of our relationship with God. In 1 John 4:16 (ESV), we're reminded, “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” Imagine that! Abiding in love means abiding in God Himself.

But how do we live out this love in a way that draws us closer to God? By loving others. Jesus Christ said loving others is the second greatest commandment, right after loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37-39). Through acts of kindness, compassion and love, we reflect God’s love to the world then in turn, we deepen our connection with Him.

Building Block #2: The Art of Devotion

Devotion enriches your relationship with God. It's more than just routine; it's about setting aside meaningful time to be with God, to talk to Him, and to listen. Think of it as a daily coffee date with your best friend where you share your hopes, fears, and dreams.

However, it is essential to note that devotion requires consistency. It's not about the grand gestures. It is about the daily decision to seek God through prayer, reading the Bible, or simply sitting in silence, acknowledging His presence in your life. Psalm 1:2 (ESV) says, “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.” Imagine the depth of connection you can build by delighting in God's Word day and night!

Building Block #3: Compassion is Love in Action

Compassion is love in action. It's seeing the needs of others and moving to meet them, just as Jesus did throughout His ministry. In Matthew 9:36 (ESV), we see Christ’s heart for the people: “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” When we embody this kind of compassion daily, we serve those around us and grow closer to God, understanding His heart for His people.

Building Block #4: Cultivating a Deeper Connection

So, how do we put this all together and cultivate a deeper connection with God? Here are four practical steps:

Step #1: Set Aside Time: Make a daily appointment with God. It doesn't have to be long, but it should be intentional.

Step #2: Engage with Scripture: Dive into the Bible to understand God's heart. Let it be a dialogue, not a monologue.

Step #3: Live Out Love: Look for opportunities to show love and compassion to those around you. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Step #4: Reflect and Respond: Reflect on God's love for you and how He's working in your life. Respond to His love by living out your faith in natural, tangible ways.

Building a deeper connection with God is a journey of love, devotion, and compassion. It's about drawing near to Him so He can draw near to us (James 4:8). Remember, this journey isn't a sprint; it's a marathon. There will be days when you feel closer to God and when He feels far away. But through it all, remember that God's love for you is steadfast, and His arms are always open wide, ready to draw you in.

Let’s Pray: Lord, help us as we seek a deeper connection with you. Grant us strength to draw near to you as you promise to draw near to us. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Speak” by Bethany Music. Listen here.

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Author Bio:

Dr. Gladys Childs is an author, speaker, religion professor, pastor's wife, and mom helping others be F.R.E.E. to Thrive© for the abundant life God has for them. She serves as Chaplain at Texas Wesleyan University and the Women’s Director at LifePoint Fellowship. She brings 25 years of experience and knowledge to her ministry. 

Gladys is frequently called authentic, witty, and candid as she shares her journey through life’s ups and downs. Her passion is meeting people at the intersection of faith and life’s difficulties. No stranger to heartache herself, she grew up in a non-church-going family with an alcoholic mother and is a trauma survivor.

Gladys holds a Ph.D. in Foundations of Education, a Master’s in Religious Education, a Master of Divinity, and a B.A. with a double major in Counseling and Psychology. Also, she is an ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church.

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