Starting Strong: Three Simple Ways to Begin Your Journey with God
Starting your spiritual journey doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s all about taking simple, intentional steps to grow closer to God. I’ve found that committing to these practices can make a big difference in my faith even on busy days. Here are three simple and powerful ways to begin your spiritual journey: 1. Talk to God Through Prayer
Prayer is simply talking to God. You don’t need to know all the right words just speak from your heart. I remember when I first started taking my relationship with God seriously. I had a lot of questions, and I didn’t always know how to pray. But over time, I learned that it’s about being honest and open. There’s no "right" way to pray just talk to God like you would a close friend.
How to start:
Try saying something simple like God, I want to know You more. Please help me grow closer to You and show me Your love. You can pray at any time while you’re getting ready in the morning, before bed, or even during your lunch break. The key is consistency and making time for Him.
It’s easy to get discouraged when life gets busy or when you feel like your prayers aren't being answered right away. I’ve been there. But even if it feels like you're not making much progress, remember that God is always listening and working in your life.
2. Read the Bible: Get to Know Jesus
The Bible is where we learn about God’s heart, His promises, and what Jesus did for us. But when I first started reading, I was overwhelmed by the size of it. I didn’t know where to begin. That’s when I decided to start with the book of John in the New Testament. It’s one of the clearest, most direct accounts of Jesus’ life and His love for us.
How to start:
Pick up your Bible (or open a Bible app) and start with John 1. Take it slow. You don’t need to read a whole chapter every day start with a verse, reflect on it, and ask God to speak to you through it.
If you want a Bible that helps you stay organized and track your thoughts, I highly recommend the Journal the Word Bible (NIV). It’s perfect for notetaking, reflecting, and even creating art beside your favorite verses. The double-column format is easy to read, and the soft teal cover adds a personal touch. I’ve found that journaling alongside my Bible reading helps me connect with God on a deeper level and see how His Word is impacting my daily life.
The NIV Journal the Word Bible is an excellent tool for keeping track of your thoughts and prayers as you read. It’s got plenty of space to journal, reflect, or even draw! Having a dedicated space for your thoughts makes your Bible reading more interactive and meaningful. Click Here!
3. Live Out God’s Love: Show Kindness to Others
Following Jesus isn’t just about reading and praying it’s about living out His love. I remember the first time I understood what it meant to love others like Jesus does. It wasn’t always easy, especially when I was going through a hard time. But I learned that showing kindness even in small ways helps me grow spiritually.
How to start:
Look for little ways to show love each day. Smile at a stranger, help a friend, or forgive someone who has hurt you. It doesn’t need to be anything big. Sometimes, just being patient or giving someone a kind word can make a huge difference. Jesus calls us to love others unconditionally, just as He loves us.
Living out God’s love is a daily practice, and it’s something I’ve had to commit to, especially when life feels busy or stressful. But I’ve found that the more I focus on loving others, the more I feel God’s love in my own life.
Ready to take the first step?
If you're looking for a tool to help you along the way, the NIV Journal the Word Bible is a great place to start. It’s perfect for reflection, note-taking, and diving deeper into God’s Word. Let’s grow together on this beautiful journey of faith! Share your thoughts, questions, or your spiritual journey in the comments below. I’d love to hear how God is working in your life.
