“Come near to God and he will come near to you.” James 4:8

Life is all about relationships. Friends. Family. Husband. God. Each one demands a lot of personal time, energy, and heart. And with online communication and cell phones you would think we’d somehow be better connected. But we’re not! We may be connected on the facts of life but not on the issues that really matter. It’s those meaningful, deep conversations with one another that create closeness—over time…that we seem to have less and less of.

The lack of relational time, I believe, is a spiritual problem. If the evil one can’t make you bad, he’ll make you busy. In order to grow in love for others and love for Christ, we must slow down and stay connected to Him. The Bible says to “come near to God and He will come near to you.” We cannot change the number of hours in a day…but we can change the way we spend our time. Be with others. Listen carefully. Have meaningful conversation. Eat a meal together. Make the moments count. Especially with your Heavenly Father.

Our willingness to give ourselves to others is what really leads to meaningful connection. It builds loyal friendships, trusted family ties, and loving relationships. But loyalty, trust, and love only come when we give ourselves to God and others—over time.

• Bible Readings for the Week Ahead:
• Monday: Acts 2:1,42,46,47
• Tuesday: Romans 15:5-7
• Wednesday: 1 Corinthians 1:10
• Thursday: Galatians 6:2,10
• Friday: Ephesians 2:19-22
• Saturday: Philippians 1:3,27
• Sunday: Philippians 2:1,2