Growing closer to God through prayer

IWM Devotion: Growing closer to God through prayer 

Scripture: “Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart."—Jeremiah 29:12-13

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Word For Today

First, let’s understand what prayer is. And I believe many of us already have an idea. In the simplest way, prayer is talking to God. But as you grow, you begin to realize that prayer is much more than that. Prayer is not a one-way conversation, but a two-way communication. Through the Holy Spirit, fellowship has been made easy for us, unlike how it was in the old.

When we talk about prayer, sadly, some people think it’s only about making requests. Yes, prayer is powerful and it can change us deeply, but it must first be understood. And I’m glad this is one of the truths God has taught us in the prayer foundation mentorship.

It is good to go to God when we are in need, but it’s time we stop treating prayer like a transaction, as if we are trying to buy favor. Favor, blessings, hope, joy, and everything good you can think of flow naturally when you dwell with God and serve Him.

Prayer can do so much for us, but first things first, we must understand that prayer is a relationship. God desires relationship before performance. He wants to hear our voice. He wants to see us come to Him in humility.

In the same way, God desires for us to come to Him, not just as God, but as our Father, and we as His children. Moving on, when we talk about growing closer to God through prayer, we are talking about a way to truly know God and to seek Him more.

The Bible says, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” This simply means that God is always available, always ready, but we must take the step. When we intentionally come close to Him, He responds with His presence, His peace, and His nearness.

Scripture also says, “I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me.” This shows us that seeking God is not in vain. When we pursue Him genuinely, consistently, and wholeheartedly, we will experience Him. He makes Himself known to those who truly desire Him.

So you see, it is very important to draw near to God and build something solid with Him. There is so much benefit in it, peace, direction, strength, and a deep sense of purpose. There is power in choosing daily to seek Him genuinely. And prayer is one of the greatest ways to do that.

Growing closer to God is not about using big words, it’s not about praying for long hours. It’s really about building a real, honest relationship with Him, just like you would with someone you love.

Now, some days, your prayer might be full of words. Other days, it might just be, “God, help me.” And that’s okay. God is looking for your heart. You just come as you are. Growing closer to God through prayer also means being honest. Tell Him how you really feel. If you’re confused, say it. If you’re hurt, don’t hide it. If you’re grateful, express it. That honesty is what deepens your connection with Him.

And I will tell you that growing closer to God is also about consistency. And as you keep showing up, something begins to change, not just in your relationship with God, but in you. Your mind becomes calmer. Your heart becomes softer. Your faith becomes stronger. Prayer may seem simple, but it’s powerful. It’s where you find strength when you’re weak, peace when you’re overwhelmed, and direction when you feel lost.

Now, let’s look at it this way. Imagine you’re in a relationship with someone who always shows up for you. He’s present at your important moments, your celebrations, your milestones, your quiet days. You know that feeling. Now imagine not seeing him for a while. I’ll leave you with that thought.

So don’t overthink it. Just start. Speak. Listen. Be real. That’s how you grow closer to God.

And lastly, beloved, do not become too familiar with Him and miss it all. Do not joke with God. Because having a relationship with Him is better than anything good you can ever imagine. And I pray that He helps us, giving us the grace to grow closer and to continually draw near to Him.

 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we ask that You revive every humble heart. Breathe fresh life into us again, Lord. Draw us closer to You in a deeper and more real way. Help us to seek You sincerely, to hunger for Your presence, and to stay connected to You daily. Remove every distraction, every heaviness, and anything that pulls us away from You.

Lord, please awaken our hearts again. Let our desire for You grow stronger. In Jesus name, Amen.