The process of building and maintaining a good relationship with Jesus is full of love, faith, and intention. It does not happen overnight. Like any worthwhile relationship, it requires continued effort, time, and commitment.
The best part is that it’s not rocket science to strengthen your bond with Christ. If you keep infusing simple, daily practices into life, you’ll begin to feel His presence close to you. Here are five practical ways to strengthen your relationship with Jesus every day.
1. Start Your Day with Prayer
Prayer is the foundation of every relationship with God. Begin each morning by dedicating your day to Jesus. Take just a few moments to thank Him for His blessings, seek His guidance, and surrender your worries. Prayer doesn’t have to be long or formal; it’s about opening your heart to Him.
Dedicate a specific time and place for your morning prayer. Whether at your bedside, while walking, or over a cup of coffee, let this moment be an intimate conversation with Jesus. Beginning the day in His presence sets the tone for a Christ-centered life.
2. Immerse Yourself in Scripture
The Bible is God’s living word, full of wisdom and encouragement. Spending each day reading it and meditating on it allows you to hear from God and align life around His will. Choose one verse or passage each day and think through the message and application in your life.
There is a good place to begin if you are new to Bible study. Start with the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John where you will read about the teaching and ministry of Jesus. Alternatively, you can use devotional guides or apps to help you get regular, deeper insights.
3. Practice Gratitude Throughout the Day
Gratitude aligns our hearts with God’s goodness while building our confidence in Him. Take some time throughout the day to thank Jesus for the big and small things in your life. Gratitude changes our attitudes – remembering His faithfulness, even when things aren’t going our way.
Develop a gratitude journal or cultivate the habit of stopping to thank God during meals, breaks, or before bed. This daily acknowledgment of His presence deepens your awareness of His love and provision.
4. Serve Others with Love
Finally, Jesus said, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). Service is a great way to live out your faith and connect with Christ. Be on the lookout for the opportunity to act kindly, generously, and compassionately towards others.
Whether it is lending a hand to a neighbor, giving time for service, or being an attentive ear, serving others shows Jesus’s love and deepens your relationship with Him by living as He instructed.
5. End Your Day in Reflection and Worship
At the end of your day, take some time to reflect upon how Jesus was experienced in that day. Thank Him for guidance, but be sure to seek forgiveness and express love through worship. This practice not only closes the day but also strengthens your connection with Him.
Other meaningful and beautiful ways to end a day in His presence are listening to worship music or reading a Psalm before sleeping.
Final Thoughts
Strengthening your relationship with Jesus is about inviting Him into every aspect of your life, including your thoughts, actions, and moments. By praying, reading Scripture, practicing gratitude, serving others, and ending your day in worship, you’ll cultivate a deeper connection with Christ that brings peace, joy, and purpose.
It is not about perfection but persistence. These small, steady steps taken will determine how one’s relationship with Jesus is transformed and enriched in life.