How can I get closer to God?

[Xin]

Hey guys, I'm new here. I've always sort of been a Christian, but at one point in time I sort of became lost and did a lot of bad things. It appears to be true that the more blessings you have from God, the more sin or whatever will try to tempt you. A long time ago it seemed like I got exactly what my heart desired because I remember praying every night for it, and I basically ran away with it, and eventually lost my way with it.

I was recently at this get away with my church we stayed in a remote area for a time, doing church activities and such. On one of the nights, I prayed for a long time, repenting and such, and I felt touched and extremely emotional and teary that night. I remembered everything that God has done for me, and Jesus's sacrifice. I also felt extremely guilty, undeserving, and regretful of the way I've been acting, so I decided to turn things around.

It's been pretty difficult. I have taken to reading the Bible again, and praying every night, as well as trying to control my thoughts and actions. It's a big struggle though, mainly with my thoughts, because I was taught in high school to question and think about EVERYTHING so my mind is always running and going to random places I don't want it to go. Sometimes I even have multiple thoughts running at a time, where I can basically have, lets say, the Bible in front of me and reading, but suddenly while I'm reading, it's like another screen opens up in my head and a bunch of sinful thoughts appear that I have no idea where they came from. It seems like these thoughts push even harder as I try to get away from them.

I was wondering what are some possible ways I can get closer to God? I've been far away for so long; I feel like the rebellious kid that ran away from home and realized how many mistakes he's made, so he's hanging his head low in guilt and remorse as he trudges back home, to a thankfully, graceful and forgiving God.

 

[asiyreh]

So what's to discuss bro? You've just told the story of ever Christian in the room

WB...

 

[Xin]

So what's to discuss bro? You've just told the story of ever Christian in the room

WB...

Well, yes of course but I am unsure what I can do to get closer to God. It's kind of a gray area for me. I know I can pray before bed, go to church, read the Bible, and try my best to combat the sin that tries to invade my life, but I don't know what else I can do.

 

[damascusroad]

Sounds like you are well on your way to doing that, while at the same time doubts enter in. Be aware of the fact that you have two natures: 1) sinful, and 2) Spiritual. You were born with #1 and you received #2 when you confessed Jesus as Savior (Romans 10:8-13). That doesn't mean that the sinful nature went away. It is still there, full of pre-conceived notions and ideas, full of the lust of the flesh, full of mechanistic methods for engaging and solving life's issues. Your Spiritual Nature is right there, ready to combat everything that the sinful nature throws at it. How do you determine who is in control? Your question reveals a lot about that. Sooooooo many questions, so much confusion, so much doubt, along with fear. Who does that sound like?

So when you think about who is "in charge," think about which "I" is speaking when you talk to others, and especially when you pray. Does it go like this: "O Lord, "I" am so miserable. "I" try so hard. "I" don't know what is happening to me. Please help me!" Well, that's isn't the Spiritual Nature. That's that old busy-body, the devil, pounding away at your sinful side. Your Spiritual Nature is monitored 24/7/365 by the Holy Spirit. He is in direct contact with God through the mediation of Jesus. In Him, you ARE close to God. You are loved beyond measure by God. You are the Righteousness of God in Christ! Wow!

Lean not to your own understanding in your daily and prayer life. In all your ways acknowledge Him. When He is on the Throne, the sinful nature shuts its mouth. When He is on the Throne, your "I" will rejoice in Him.

Spend some time everyday just singing. Sing praises. Pray "little" prayers throughout the day. SHOUT unto God with the voice of TRIUMPH! You have been born again, you are saved for eternity! How firm a foundation, ye Saints of our Lord!

 

[Xin]

Sounds like you are well on your way to doing that, while at the same time doubts enter in. Be aware of the fact that you have two natures: 1) sinful, and 2) Spiritual. You were born with #1 and you received #2 when you confessed Jesus as Savior (Romans 10:8-13). That doesn't mean that the sinful nature went away. It is still there, full of pre-conceived notions and ideas, full of the lust of the flesh, full of mechanistic methods for engaging and solving life's issues. Your Spiritual Nature is right there, ready to combat everything that the sinful nature throws at it. How do you determine who is in control? Your question reveals a lot about that. Sooooooo many questions, so much confusion, so much doubt, along with fear. Who does that sound like?

So when you think about who is "in charge," think about which "I" is speaking when you talk to others, and especially when you pray. Does it go like this: "O Lord, "I" am so miserable. "I" try so hard. "I" don't know what is happening to me. Please help me!" Well, that's isn't the Spiritual Nature. That's that old busy-body, the devil, pounding away at your sinful side. Your Spiritual Nature is monitored 24/7/365 by the Holy Spirit. He is in direct contact with God through the mediation of Jesus. In Him, you ARE close to God. You are loved beyond measure by God. You are the Righteousness of God in Christ! Wow!

Lean not to your own understanding in your daily and prayer life. In all your ways acknowledge Him. When He is on the Throne, the sinful nature shuts its mouth. When He is on the Throne, your "I" will rejoice in Him.

Spend some time everyday just singing. Sing praises. Pray "little" prayers throughout the day. SHOUT unto God with the voice of TRIUMPH! You have been born again, you are saved for eternity! How firm a foundation, ye Saints of our Lord!

I'm not so good with prayer, or at least I don't think so because some of the people at my church are very loud and passionate and I'm not a loud person so I feel kind of dwarfed haha. But when I do pray, I usually thank God for the day, and I pray for problems I know exist with other people, and I pray for the people around me. As for myself, sometimes I don't pray for anything because I feel pretty blessed to just be where I am so far, but when I do pray for something for myself, it's usually just repenting, asking to get closer to God, or to get over my shyness, which I mentioned about earlier.

As for when I talk to other people, I realize that may be a result of sin, as I read your "full of pre-conceived notions and ideas"... I'm naturally kind of shy and I don't talk a lot. If I really ask myself why I'm shy, it's because I'm afraid of what other people will think of me (and also because I'm a horrible speaker and say and ask stupid things when I'm in a stressful situation... which is almost always when someone I don't know well talks to me). Is that a result of pride, caring what people think about me? Sometimes I feel like I know what people are going to do if I do "this" so I just don't do anything because I'm focused on what their negative reaction might be... But I don't really know what to do about it.

 

[RLM0501]

My friend, seek God, seek him endlessly, it might take a little while, but you will find him right by your side. It takes much time and prayer. I am praying for you!

 

[asiyreh]

I thought this verse might help.

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance Gal 5:22 -23

 

[Peripatetic]

I find that communication is what draws me closer. I talk to Him through prayer, and He talks to me through scripture. Both can be challenging, and I'm still learning after 40+ years. The Holy Spirit will help you to "hear" that voice from His written word, but it takes time and patience. The fact that you are showing this kind of interest tells me that you are making great progress!

 

[7angels]

i have been in your shoes. i grew up as a christian and then became a sinner because it seemed everyone i knew that was radically changed were sinners so that is what i became so i could get radically changed also. well it did not work i am sorry to say. it caused me to leave God for several years. then i found a church that was spirit filled and teaches the word of God instead of preaches the word of God. it turned my life around. i found that what makes christianity different from every other religion is the supernatural which is to follow the word of God in order to confirm that what is preached is true. i was taught that if we cannot prove that Jesus is still alive then we have no business believing in Christ.

i don't know where you are spiritually so i cannot give you any advice atm. i hope this helps.

God bless

 

[Shulamite7]

Read 278pikelk's daily messages from the Lord and also watch this channel heiscoming12. The last two sentences of your post just seems so similar to the last 2 or 3 sentences of 278pikelk's message titled Righteous robes! Please listen to that message and write it down. The message will be given in detail below.

 

[Harry3142]

Xin-

Read Matthew 25:31-46. That passage is more than merely a way of identifying us as truly accepting Christ. It's also a spiritual exercise. We can't feed those who are in need if we keep a door closed between ourselves and their need. We can't clothe those who are in need if we put ourselves on a pedestal that makes it impossible for us to reach them. In order to follow this passage in our own lives we must see ourselves as being on the same level with others around us, as well as seeing others as equally important to God.

 

[Jonathan95]

Well, yes of course but I am unsure what I can do to get closer to God. It's kind of a gray area for me. I know I can pray before bed, go to church, read the Bible, and try my best to combat the sin that tries to invade my life, but I don't know what else I can do.

Ok well you don't have to pray only before bed. God wants us to be in constant relationship with him. Worship is also good, you can do it at home too. You can worship him, pray to him (talk with him) in your heart wherever you are, doesn't need to be loud always:

"Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;" Ephesians 5:19

You can also study the bible, not just read it too. I've started doing it lately by reading well known bible commentaries, expositions. You can also read Christian books. Books on the Christian life and so. You can read on the computer too, there are many available for free there if you don't want to buy them.

 

[damascusroad]

Xin, you told the story of my early life in this quote:

"As for when I talk to other people, I realize that may be a result of sin, as I read your "full of pre-conceived notions and ideas"... I'm naturally kind of shy and I don't talk a lot. If I really ask myself why I'm shy, it's because I'm afraid of what other people will think of me (and also because I'm a horrible speaker and say and ask stupid things when I'm in a stressful situation... which is almost always when someone I don't know well talks to me). Is that a result of pride, caring what people think about me? Sometimes I feel like I know what people are going to do if I do "this" so I just don't do anything because I'm focused on what their negative reaction might be... But I don't really know what to do about it."


That was me. 100%. What a wonderful change in my life has been wrought since 1980 when Jesus knocked and I answered. I had been in the church all my life up to that point, but I was "in" the "church" and not in Him, Him in me. My shyness evaporated in 1980. My clumsy apologies for being me vanished. The idea that I knew what other people thought about me disappeared. It was all in my head. Sure, lots of stuff that happened in my life served to put me in a shell. I finally realized that I didn't have to go on believing my interpretation of those events; they no longer had a hold on my life. I had to deal with what is, not what used to be, or what might be. No longer walking with my head down, afraid to look up, now I looked folks square in the eye. Now I reach out with a handshake, a comforting word. Now I pray out loud publicly and privately. Now when I hear someone depressed or angry or worn out I say, "May I pray with you?"

What happened? Jesus happened. The Holy Spirit happened. The words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart became acceptable in HIS site, my strength, my redeemer. No matter what happened in life after that, I KNEW that I belonged to Him and that I would live with Him forever. There is NO greater love.

Assemble with others of like faith. Meet with the Pastor, an Elder, a Deacon. Get involved in Christian Training and Bible Study. Don't make it a chore, a test, an overpowering burden. Light up your face with gladness, AWAY every trace of sadness, when there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by, if you'll smile through your tears and sorrow, smile and today becomes tomorrow----filled with Jesus and you.

 

[Xin]

Ok well you don't have to pray only before bed. God wants us to be in constant relationship with him. Worship is also good, you can do it at home too. You can worship him, pray to him (talk with him) in your heart wherever you are, doesn't need to be loud always:

"Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;" Ephesians 5:19

You can also study the bible, not just read it too. I've started doing it lately by reading well known bible commentaries, expositions. You can also read Christian books. Books on the Christian life and so. You can read on the computer too, there are many available for free there if you don't want to buy them.

Oh yes, I go throughout my day asking God what I should do in a situation Sometimes I feel like I'm complaining because I try to direct all my thoughts toward God, because He is always with me, so He's like my conversational partner during the day. Therefore I'm trying to clean up my thoughts a little bit, and making most of my conversation and prayer with Him in questions about what certain things mean and what I should do given a situation! I also spend a lot of time alone during the day because it's commuting and class, so I have a lot of time to speak with Him xD

Xin, you told the story of my early life in this quote:

"As for when I talk to other people, I realize that may be a result of sin, as I read your "full of pre-conceived notions and ideas"... I'm naturally kind of shy and I don't talk a lot. If I really ask myself why I'm shy, it's because I'm afraid of what other people will think of me (and also because I'm a horrible speaker and say and ask stupid things when I'm in a stressful situation... which is almost always when someone I don't know well talks to me). Is that a result of pride, caring what people think about me? Sometimes I feel like I know what people are going to do if I do "this" so I just don't do anything because I'm focused on what their negative reaction might be... But I don't really know what to do about it."


That was me. 100%. What a wonderful change in my life has been wrought since 1980 when Jesus knocked and I answered. I had been in the church all my life up to that point, but I was "in" the "church" and not in Him, Him in me. My shyness evaporated in 1980. My clumsy apologies for being me vanished. The idea that I knew what other people thought about me disappeared. It was all in my head. Sure, lots of stuff that happened in my life served to put me in a shell. I finally realized that I didn't have to go on believing my interpretation of those events; they no longer had a hold on my life. I had to deal with what is, not what used to be, or what might be. No longer walking with my head down, afraid to look up, now I looked folks square in the eye. Now I reached out with a handshake, a comforting word. Now I could pray out loud publicly and privately. Now when I heard someone depressed or angry or worn out I could say, "May I pray with you?"

What happened? Jesus happened. The Holy Spirit happened. The words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart became acceptable in HIS site, my strength, my redeemer. No matter what happened in life after that, I KNEW that I belonged to Him and that I would live with Him forever. There is NO greater love.

Assemble with others of like faith. Meet with the Pastor, an Elder, a Deacon. Get involved in Christian Training and Bible Study. Don't make it a chore, a test, an overpowering burden. Light up your face with gladness, AWAY every trace of sadness, when there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by, if you'll smile through your tears and sorrow, smile and today becomes tomorrow----filled with Jesus and you.

It's a lot harder said then done xD I'm Asian, and my church is an Asian church as well. I did not come from an Christian family, but what matters is that Asian parents are very strict and like to beat the confidence out of their children (literally!, if you've read the Tiger Mother's book, Amy Hua, I think?) Also, many of the people in my church are also very musically talented, and if not, talented in other aspect. I feel rather overshadowed because, even though I'm 21, I'm not really sure what my talents are because I've never gotten over thinking about what others think of me, hence I don't really put myself out there a lot and just do things.

Ever since I've been trying to be more involved in church, I have noticed I'm getting a little more open now. I do meet and greet most of everyone in church (unless it's someone I might have something of a mini-crush on ), and I sing my heart out more, but I have to close my eyes and pretend no one is around. I still have trouble talking to people I've never met before, and in these cases, I bring my other Christian friend along with me because he's a much better talker

 

[damascusroad]

Xin, the Holy Spirit within you can talk to anyone about anything. Your old sinful nature just has to get out of the way. Then you'll look all around, smiling when you sing, AND you'll close your eyes when you sing. Today there are musical instrument that practically play themselves. There is an inexpensive keyboard that shows you which key to press next! It has a chord selector to include various chords. You work with it 8 or 10 hours and you'll get the hang of it.

Listen to your Christian friend. How does he bridge the gap between himself and others? What points can you pick up just listening? REMEMBER: Don't FORCE a conversation! Don't PRETEND to be conversational. It isn't necessary for you to "make" other folks laugh. Let the words flow from your Spiritual Nature. They will ALWAYS be the right words, words that speak love, joy and peace to others. Words that identify you as a genuinely caring person. First thing in the morning say something like this (out loud):

"Father, be me today. Flow through me. Embrace others through me. Lord today is yours. I let go of today. Holy Spirit, fill today. Grow, glow through me. Let my smile, my greetings, my thoughts, my words and deeds, be your very own. All glory and honor and praise belong to you, Lord. Lead the way today. I'll walk in your footsteps, not my own. I'll experience you ...... you are all I need. Amen and Amen!"

 

[damascusroad]

Xin, here is an insight that you may want to consider..........

Never Just Exist, by Brent Phillips

Check out the website: neverjustexist.com

 

[Xin]

Xin, here is an insight that you may want to consider..........

Never Just Exist, by Brent Phillips

Check out the website: neverjustexist.com

I am slowly understanding and trying to be more open and stuff... Obviously it's very difficult to get rid of your worldly self right away. I've started to become more open, but as a consequence I also hear people actually talking about me more often, instead of just me thinking people might be saying things. It's kind of disheartening sometimes!

 

[Emmy]

Dear Xin. In Matthew 22, verse 35-40, Jesus tells a Lawyer: "The first and great Commandment is: Love God with all thy heart, with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. The second is like it: Love thy neighbour as thyself." Then Jesus points out: " On these two Commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets." Love is very important to God.
Start by treating all you know and all you meet as you would love to be treated, with kindness and always friendly words. God will see your sincere efforts to follow God`s Commandments, and God will approve and bless you: God will also know that you follow His Commandments to Love and care. Jesus told us to:
"ask and ye will will receive," then thank God and share all Love with your neighbour. ( Matthew 7: 7-8) Keep asking God and thanking God, and sharing all Love with all around you: your neighbour. God is Love and God wants loving children/sons and daughters. Jesus our Saviour will help and guide you all the way: JESUS IS THE WAY. Just keep following Jesus, and Jesus and you will find that God is close to you, and His Blessings will surround you. I say this with love, xin. Greetings from Emmy, your sister in Christ.

 

[damascusroad]

Xin, been there, done that. Regardless of what "they" may or may not be saying about you, personally, you are a blessed event in this life, a minister of God's love to self and others. Don't sweat the small stuff, don't let your imagination decide what is true or false. In all your ways acknowledge Him, in your going out and in your coming in. In everything give Him thanks. Keep that gentle, gentle smile on your face --- He put it there! If there is fear of rejection, ease into the situation. Realize that everyone you encounter won't turn out to be your best friend. Cherish your friends. They'll disappoint you at times, but that is a normal part of life --- they have their burdens to bear. You continue to be loving, true, kind, a genuine friend with genuine concern for others. Walk in His footsteps! Help others with their burdens. Wow! It doesn't get any better than that!

 

[SharonL]

Hey guys, I'm new here. I've always sort of been a Christian, but at one point in time I sort of became lost and did a lot of bad things. It appears to be true that the more blessings you have from God, the more sin or whatever will try to tempt you. A long time ago it seemed like I got exactly what my heart desired because I remember praying every night for it, and I basically ran away with it, and eventually lost my way with it.

I was recently at this get away with my church we stayed in a remote area for a time, doing church activities and such. On one of the nights, I prayed for a long time, repenting and such, and I felt touched and extremely emotional and teary that night. I remembered everything that God has done for me, and Jesus's sacrifice. I also felt extremely guilty, undeserving, and regretful of the way I've been acting, so I decided to turn things around.

It's been pretty difficult. I have taken to reading the Bible again, and praying every night, as well as trying to control my thoughts and actions. It's a big struggle though, mainly with my thoughts, because I was taught in high school to question and think about EVERYTHING so my mind is always running and going to random places I don't want it to go. Sometimes I even have multiple thoughts running at a time, where I can basically have, lets say, the Bible in front of me and reading, but suddenly while I'm reading, it's like another screen opens up in my head and a bunch of sinful thoughts appear that I have no idea where they came from. It seems like these thoughts push even harder as I try to get away from them.

I was wondering what are some possible ways I can get closer to God? I've been far away for so long; I feel like the rebellious kid that ran away from home and realized how many mistakes he's made, so he's hanging his head low in guilt and remorse as he trudges back home, to a thankfully, graceful and forgiving God.

The first thing you need to do is reverse this - the enemy wants you to believe you are not worthy. You must take God at His worde. When you turn back to Jesus and repent of your sins, God sees you washed in the Blood of Jesus and your sins in the lake of forgetfulness - you must see yourself in the same light.

Walking with Jesus is a daily joy and you don't have to work at it. The Bible tells us that Jesus is only a heartbeat away and walks with you and is your friend. You can talk to Jesus all the time. You don't have to be on bended knee with Bible in hand to talk to Jesus. I talk to Him in everything I do.

The enemy will continue to place thoughts in your head because he does not want to lose you - but he will not stay around at the name of Jesus. Just say get behind me, I am a child of God.

Just put your hand in the hand of Jesus and walk side by side and listen for that still small voice of the Holy Spirit to guide you. You will be fine. God knows your heart. Just see yourself in the mirror as God sees you and take Him at His word.