Day 19: Strengthen Your Relationship

Why do we sometimes feel spiritually “stuck,” like a plane that starts its engine but never actually takes off? 

This struggle often begins in the mind. A lack of control over our own thoughts leads to impurity. A person might kneel to pray, but their mind wanders. They might promise God a day of fasting, only to start the day with a meal. They feel powerless because their body and its desires are still in control. This distance from God is a major loophole for deception and leads to slavery to our habits.

Our choice of relationships is also vital. The days are so evil that even a close friend today can become an enemy tomorrow. Because human relationships are fragile, it is unwise to put your ultimate trust in friends rather than in God. When you put all your trust in God first, He gives you the stability to build and maintain more sustainable, healthy relationships with your friends.

We experience God’s true wealth and power only when we are fully surrendered to Him. He is a loving God, but also a jealous God—He wants all of us. This includes honoring Him with what He has given us. We cannot honestly pray for financial healing if we are stingy toward supporting God’s work. Our generosity is a reflection of our purpose for living.

There are several essential elements that help us grow our relationship with Christ: Faith, prayer, the Word of God, fellowship with other believers, being filled with the Holy Spirit, testifying to others, and Godly service.

Connecting with other believers is crucial. The Bible encourages us to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together” (Hebrews 10:24-25).

We must also recognize that we can all serve God in our respective jobs. A pastor serves God, but so does a government worker in the health ministry by ensuring people get care, or a worker in the justice system by ensuring equity. God is interested in how you serve His people. Growing your relationship with Him will strengthen your excellence in whatever you do.

Never cease to pray. Trust that God is in control and tell Him what you need. Jesus promised, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7). Trust in the Lord, and He will make you a light for the nations.