Amidst the busyness and commotion of our daily lives, it is easy to lose sight of what is truly important. We can easily succumb to the tidal wave of immediate concerns that threaten to flood our lives and cause us to feel like we are drowning. The demands of work, family, relationships, school, extracurriculars, and the rest of our various commitments can make having a relationship with God seem like a daunting challenge and render us spiritually paralyzed, but a healthy relationship with God can be a source of unparalleled strength.

To have a healthy connection with God, I want to propose we reconsider the “put God first” approach.

While making God your number one priority might seem like the logical strategy to spiritual growth, it can inadvertently lead to a superficial connection. The risk lies in the temptation to treat your relationship with God as a mere action item to be crossed off the list. Spend time with God… check… on to the next. But your spiritual journey shouldn’t be reduced to a checkbox; God desires an infinitely more profound connection with you.

Let’s explore four ways you can nurture a meaningful relationship with your divine Heavenly Father.

The foundation of every relationship with God is Surrender. Surrendering our worries, fears, desires, and our need for control to God allows us to tap into a wellspring of divine wisdom. Surrender helps us acknowledge the truth that, despite our best efforts, we are not in complete control of our lives. We can find great peace in knowing that there is a greater plan beyond our comprehension.

Prayer, hence, becomes a powerful tool in maintaining this connection. Regular communication with God fosters a sense of intimacy and trust, serving as a reminder that we are not alone on our journey. God is always listening to our joys and sorrows, and He shares in those with us. Prayer tunes our minds to God’s wisdom and opens our hearts to receive the grace needed to navigate life’s challenges.

Cultivating an attitude of gratitude is essential to opening our eyes to the blessings that surround us. When we find the holy in the ordinary, we acknowledge God’s hand in every detail. Remaining aware of God’s presence in all things recalibrates our perspective, elevating what really matters as the things of Earth will grow strangely dim in light of God’s glory and grace.

Furthermore, incorporating regular spiritual practices into our daily routine is another way to keep God first. Reading scripture, attending corporate worship and Bible study, and serving others reinforces our commitment to a higher calling. These rituals create a sacred space in our lives, allowing us to pause, reflect, and realign our priorities with God’s principles.

Keeping God first isn’t just a religious practice; it is a transformative way of living that results in a life filled with purpose. As we allow God to permeate every aspect of our lives, not simply teeter precariously at the top of our ever-mounting list of obligations, the natural consequence is the peace, grace, and joy promised all throughout the Bible. Surrender, pray, choose gratitude, and incorporate regular spiritual routines; God will be a “lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path.” – Psalm 119:105

By Rev. David Orges, Executive Pastor of Live Oak Church