How to Draw Closer To God Through Prayer

How to Draw Closer To God Through Prayer

by | Aug 30, 2021 | Accountability, Christianity, Empowerment, Mars Hill Baptist Church, Prayer, Spiritual Growth

When you know precisely what you want to accomplish and how your goals seem realistic, it's easier to achieve objectives like 10 pounds lost, debt eliminated, and a new career when they're concrete. Specifics provide a reference point and instruct you on what to do next.

It's a journey that will last a lifetime—and then some. It's not something you should expect to happen immediately. So, set any anxiety or guilt aside and commit to making modest progress each day, week, and month.

I was feeling stuck in a rut spiritually. I had been growing in my faith, talking and walking with God, but then I stopped maturing. After trying these steps, I noticed an improvement in my relationship with God.

What if there was a simple way to get closer to God? What if it only took three steps? Would you try it? I did, and now I want to share what worked for me and pray they work for you. First, you begin by getting into prayer mode.


Get Into Prayer Mode

A big part of my spiritual walk is prayer, and I found that many times when I was starting to feel distant from God, I wasn't tuning in to prayer. So I sat down one day and created a schedule to pray twice a day - Once in the morning and once in the evening.

When I sit down to pray, it's usually just God and me. I ask Him for forgiveness for whatever troubles me or has bothered me throughout the day. And at night before bed, I thank Him for all of the blessings He's given me during the day and thank Him for making me feel closer to Him than ever before.

My goal with this schedule was to spend at least 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes before bed talking to God. I wanted to make sure I had a connection with Him each day, no matter how busy I was. This schedule truly helped me feel closer to God, and I hope it does the same for you. Try it out for a week or so, and see how much more connected you feel with God!

Now that you're in prayer mode, next, eliminate all distractions, including electronic distractions.

Eliminate Electronic Distractions

I also recommend turning off any digital devices that might disturb or distract you from the prayer. Try to find a place where you can be alone and uninterrupted, even for a short while. It's not about being perfect, but it is about making an effort.

If you can't find a place to pray, don't worry about it. I was tempted to make it easier for you by listing some great spots to find solitude in, but the truth is that you can pray anywhere: your bedroom, church, bathroom (no one will judge), or even while walking the dog!

You can pray anywhere and anytime that you feel led to. Some ideas are listed below.

If you're having a hard time following or concentrating on what you're saying, don't worry about it! You may find yourself repeating the same general prayer over and over because your thoughts are all over the place. That's okay. It's not about being perfect! Just keep at it until you feel a sense of peace or hear God's voice encouraging you to continue.

You're in prayer mode and eliminate all distractions, including electronic distractions. Next, give thanks in advance for the little things that will happen on this day.

Turn off any digital devices that might disturb or distract you from the prayer. 

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Give Thanks in Advance for the Little Things That Will Happen on This Day

Every day when you wake up, say a short prayer. It doesn't have to be anything too complex or lengthy. Just remember and thank God for the day that he gave you of life. Then ask Him what He would like you to do with your life today. Make it personal by mentioning specifics of things He has done for you.

And when it comes time to fall asleep, say another prayer. Thank God again for the blessing of a new day, and ask Him if there is anything that he would like you to do tomorrow. If you woke up with any problems or concerns, pray about them and ask God how to handle them.

Try to read a chapter from the Bible each day. It doesn't have to be in chronological order or necessarily anything extensive. Just try to get into it and understand what you are reading, even if that means rereading some parts over again. If possible, make sure that the section of the Bible that you chose relates somehow to what you are going through that day.

For instance, if you recently learned about a significant mistake your friend made, read the story of David and Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11-12). This will help remind you that we all make mistakes, even though God still loves us.

Write down any thoughts and questions during your devotional time. This will benefit you in the long run. If an idea or question comes to your head, write it down and ask God about it later that day. By doing this, you are helping yourself get closer to God by staying in a constant conversation with him.

Give thanks in advance for the little things that will happen on this day. Begin each day with an attitude of gratitude. Write down:

-I am grateful for

-I am grateful for

-I am grateful for

...and so on.

Finally, you're in prayer mode, and eliminate all distractions, including electronic distractions; gave thanks in advance for the little things that will happen on this day; it's time to make a few slight necessary adjustments.

Give Thanks in Advance for the Little Things That Will Happen on This Day.

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Slight Necessary Adjustments

Try These Steps: (James 5:16)

Step 1: Change your perspective on your relationship with God. If we are willing to admit that we have grown distant from God, He is more than happy to help us feel close again!

Step 2: Start each day by reading the Bible for 10-15 minutes. It doesn't matter where in the Bible or what part of life you read about; start with reading every morning!

Step 3: Spend time in prayer each day as well. Pray for others, pray for yourself, and thank Him (God) for all He has done.

If you are willing to commit to prayer, you will see an immediate difference in your relationship with God.

Here's What You Can Do This Week

1. Find a time and place where you will not be disturbed and can focus.

2. Turn off any digital devices that might disturb or distract you from the prayer.

3. Get into what some refer to as "prayer mode." This is your way of getting ready for prayer, with an attitude of reverential awe before God.

4. Address God as Heavenly Father in your own words and use the pronouns "Thou" and "Thee."

5. Give thanks in advance for the little things that will happen on this day, but remind yourself that God knows what will happen tomorrow, too - so don't be disappointed if you forget something today or if you don't get to pray about everything that's on your mind.

6. Pray sincerely from the heart. Give thanks, express gratitude, ask for blessings and make requests of God as you feel inspired by the Holy Spirit.

7. Express your feelings at any promptings from the Holy Ghost and take note of what thoughts or feelings you may have received, either from the Spirit or your thoughts.

8. Conclude your prayer with a statement of gratitude and love for God, such as, "I'm grateful for this opportunity to communicate with Thee O Heavenly Father" or "I love thee." Then take time to sit quietly and contemplate on any feelings that came through in your prayer.

9. Some people like to finish with a closing prayer, but others prefer to sit silently until their thoughts turn back to the world and they're ready to begin their day. It's up to you and what works best for you personally!

10. Make sure that you have been reverent in your demeanor and sincerely give thanks in your prayer. If any distractions come up, such as your mind wandering to thoughts or concerns that aren't related to what you're praying for, gently return them to the things that you were brought before God to pray about - making sure not to get frustrated with; yourself! Turn again and start over.

Conclusion

We all need to take some time for prayer. Prayer is essential in our lives, and we must find a way to include it in our day-to-day lives. The best time to pray is at night when you sleep, but other times during the day work well.

There's no right or wrong time of day—do what works best for your schedule! To start getting into prayer mode more often, try setting aside 10 minutes every morning before school starts or before work begins where you can spend that time praying with God about anything on your heart, from family issues, worries about finances in general (including how they may affect current debt), problems at work anything that is a burden on your heart should be shared with God.

Christians are to pray at all times, not just when they feel like it or for some specific reason. The Bible says in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 in context, "Pray without ceasing." It doesn't mean we can't sleep or do anything besides pray. This is my testimony of how I was able to get closer to God. I hope it will help you, as well.

Drawing closer to God begins with prayer. Don't forget to join us for part two on "How to Get Closer to God." If you found value in today's post, can you do me a favor and share it? Thanks!

How do you get into prayer mode? I'd love to hear more about your prayer strategies.

Lessons You Wished You Learned Earlier In Life – Part 2

Lessons You Wished You Learned Earlier In Life – Part 2

by | Jun 21, 2019 | Empowerment, Accountability, Decisions, Encouragement, Goals, Leadership, Motivation, Quotes, Self-Leadership, Success

Have you ever heard that "Hindsight is 20/20"?

"It's easy to know the right thing to do after something has happened, but it's hard to predict the future".

Like many, I've made many mistakes in life, but I've also learned from those mistakes. If only I would've listened, I could've avoided unnecessary setbacks. I would do some things differently if I could go back. Hindsight is 20/20.

If you're a teenager, in your early 20s, 30s, or 40s, or if you're just young at heart, I promise you will want to read this 3-part series, and can save yourself from the mistakes that most people make and regret for the rest of their lives. If you haven't read Part 1, you can read it here. 

Let's continue the countdown with the sixth lesson, every action has consequences.

6. Every Action Has Consequences

As I age, I'm discovering how wise my father was. As a kid, he would remind me that every action/decision has intended and unintended consequences. Intended consequences are the outcomes we directly see as a result of our actions. But, unintended consequences are the outcomes we do not directly see. They are delayed consequences. 

What's The Point?

Just because you don't immediately see the consequences (mostly unintended) of your actions doesn't mean they're not happening. You can't see wind either. You can, however, see the consequences of the wind. 

There are intended and unintended consequences for all of our decisions. Sometimes they take years to realize. Let's continue with the countdown with the fifth lesson, time is a nonrenewable resource.

Just because you don't immediately see the consequences of your actions doesn't mean they're not happening.

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"Nobody ever did, or ever will, escape the consequences of his choices."
Alfred A. Montapert

5. Time is a Nonrenewable Resource

"A nonrenewable resource is a resource of economic value that cannot be readily replaced by natural means on a level equal to its consumption. Most fossil fuels, such as oil, natural gas and coal are considered nonrenewable resources", according to Investopedia. 

Like the aforementioned, time is a nonrenewable resource. It cannot be readily replaced by natural means.  What does that mean? You only have RIGHT NOW! 

You only have right now. Whatever you're doing this second, you'll never get that second back. So, you want to make sure that you capitalize on all of the time that you do have and make sure you realize that being alive and healthy is a gift.

Moreover, you want to take advantage of that and live life to your truest potential. Why? You're never going to get the time back that you you know are experiencing right now.

Remember to do more of whatever makes you happy. Why? Eventually, we're all going to run out of time, and that's just the truth of the matter.

Let's conclude today's post with the countdown with the fourth lesson, everything is temporary. 

Time is a nonrenewable resource. It cannot be readily replaced by natural means.

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"Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life."

Steve Jobs

4. Everything is Temporary

Everything is temporary and comes to an end. Wow, that's pretty dark, huh?

This lesson isn't meant to be dark, it's meant to wake you up! I don't want to sound fatalistic, but, everything comes to an end. I had lots of friends in high school and college. But, today, other than Facebook, I barely see or talk to them anymore.

I'm not mad at anyone and hopefully, no one's mad at me. People move on with their lives. They get married, move to different places, and it becomes difficult to stay in contact with them.  So, be aware of the fact that things change and that everything is temporary.

Embrace people in the moment. Don't take the relationships you have today for granted. Love the people around you while enjoying their presence. Be happy that you have that time with them now!

Why? Because everything is temporary and all good things come to an end! Take advantage of  now and live in the present moment.

I trust you found value in today's post and I'd love to hear your feedback on what lessons you've learned. 

Everything is temporary and comes to an end.

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“The only permanent thing in this life is that everything is temporary.”
Author Unknown

Lessons You Wished You Learned Earlier In Life

Lessons You Wished You Learned Earlier In Life

by | Jun 19, 2019 | Empowerment, Accountability, Decisions, Encouragement, Excellence, Goals, Motivation, Quotes, Self-Leadership, Success, Vision

In 2005, Steve Jobs, founder of Apple Computer gave the Commencement Speech at Stanford University. Hidden in that speech is a powerful quote that resonates.

He said, “You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something - your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life”.

The idea behind this quote is that, as much as we try to plan our lives ahead in advance, there’s always something that’s completely unpredictable about life that teaches needed lessons. Unfortunately, people wait too long before learning those needed lessons.  In today’s post, I’m sharing three of the nine lessons that people learn too late in life.  

If you're a teenager, in your early 20s, 30s, or 40s, or if you're just young at heart, I promise you will want to read this 3-part series, and can save yourself from the mistakes that most people make and regret for the rest of their lives. Let's begin the countdown with the ninth lesson, people will criticize you.

“You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future..."

- Steve Jobs -

9.  People Will Criticize Me, So What?

Regardless of who you are, someone will criticize you. The fear of criticism kills momentum and gets in the way of creating the life that you want. If you're afraid what other people say and think about you, you might as well stay inside and give up now.

Remember this: The more successful you become, the more haters you’ll attract. It’s like that, and that’s the way it is. So, you have to decide who do you want to be. Do you want to live and become your friend, your parents, or somebody else?  

Or, do you want to live and create your own life? Remember, don't be afraid of criticism, do the things that you want to do, and live the life that you want to live. Let's continue with the countdown with the eighth lesson, you are responsible for your own happiness.

Remember this: The more successful you become, the more haters you’ll attract. 

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8. I Am Responsible For Creating My Own Happiness

Guess what? Happiness is your choice. Unfortunately, a lot of people think that happiness is something that some people have and some don't. But, the truth is, happiness is YOUR choice.

Here are two important truths I’ve discovered about happiness:

  1. Happiness is not an easy choice.
  2. It takes a daily work to be happy.

What does progress have to do with happiness? Happiness comes from making progress. If you're making progress towards your goals, you're going to experience happiness. Unfortunately, many people don't learn this until too late in life. Additionally, they may complain about getting the short end of the stick and choose to remain unhappy.

If you want to experience happiness, you have to take consistent daily action towards choosing happiness. Let's conclude today's countdown with the seventh lesson, be yourself.

Happiness comes from making progress. If you're making progress towards your goals, you're going to experience happiness. 

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“Don’t rely on someone else for your happiness and self-worth. Only you can be responsible for that.” 

- Stacey Charter -

7. Be You - Do You

I once heard someone say, “why be a cheap copy when you can be a great original”? 

Unfortunately, too many people wait too long to learn this valuable lesson. If you don’t have a firm grip on who you are, you’ll be tempted to borrow and live someone else’s life. 

Furthermore, many people (parents, friends, associates, colleagues, etc.) have opinions on who you should be. In fact, they’re willing to offer their unsolicited advice. The sooner you're  your own person, the sooner that you're happy with that person. Take Oscar Wilde's advice, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken". 

I trust you found value in today's post and I'd love to hear your feedback on what lessons you've learned. 


”You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them."

- Maya Angelou-

How To Heal a Wound That Won’t Heal

How To Heal a Wound That Won’t Heal

by | May 27, 2015 | Accountability, Christian, Christianity, Decisions, Empowerment, Encouragement, Motivation, Self-Leadership, Success

Do you have a wound that won’t heal?

“A wound that has been present for more than six weeks is considered a chronic wound and may need special treatment,” according to Dr. Prasad Kilaru, a plastic surgeon and director of the Washington Center for Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine.

Have you ever had a cut that required stitches? Have you ever had a surgery of any kind? Deep cuts and surgical procedures leave wounds that often require stitches. Eventually the stitches are removed and the pain goes away. What do you do about wounds you can’t see? How do you begin to stitch emotional wounds embedded deep within the recesses of one’s heart?

beauty girl cry

Hidden wounds are memories that hurt

Hidden Wounds are Memories That Hurt

Hidden wounds are the recollections from your past that when you think about them, they still cause pain in your life. Some define them as memories of abandonment. Some have memories of abuse. Some even have memories of ridicule, criticism or hatred.

Hidden wounds come from prejudices in society. They come from family members (they are the ones that hurt the most). Sometimes they come from parents, our children, our siblings, and aunts and uncles. You can get wounded in the work place. They’re everywhere.

I’ve been a pastor for a long time and I’ve talked to people and I’ve learned two truths about life.

  1. Everyone has a hidden wound. You may be masking it but everybody has a hidden wound. An emotional scar from someone in the past who hurt you in a serious way.
  2. Hidden Wounds (emotional scars) take longer to heal than physical wounds.

Are you ready for some good news? The good news is this: Jesus wants to heal your hidden wounds.

[shareable cite=”CE Stowers”]Hidden wounds are memories that hurt.[/shareable]

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The #1 Obstacle That’s Holding You Back (and What To Do About It)

The #1 Obstacle That’s Holding You Back (and What To Do About It)

by | Apr 29, 2015 | Accountability, Decisions, Empowerment, Encouragement, Self-Leadership, Success

Here’s something you don’t hear at most conferences and seminars: Behind every opportunity are obstacles.

In 1999, I was installed as pastor of the Mars Hill Baptist Church of Chicago.  However, as is so often the case, this opportunity came disguised as a seemingly insurmountable obstacle.  I succeeded my father, Dr. Clarence E. Stowers, Sr. as pastor.  I inherited a traditional baptist church that had plateaued.

Basic RGB

Based on almost every metric available, I knew I had to do something fast or else our attendance would decline. The optimistic side of me was determined to turn our church around. Therefore, in 2000, I attended the Purpose Driven Church Conference and worked hard to formulate and cast a new vision for the Mars Hill Baptist Church of Chicago.

I restructured our church, hired staff, and with fresh enthusiasm, we were off to a great start. I anticipated smooth sailing ahead.  What I didn’t anticipate is that everyone wants change until it affects them personally.  Why?  Growth is uncomfortable and requires change.

Everyone wants change until it affects them personally.

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What To Do When Life Isn’t Fair

What To Do When Life Isn’t Fair

by | Mar 12, 2015 | Accountability, Empowerment, Encouragement, Goals, Motivation, Self-Leadership

As a father, one of the most important things I have learned is that life is not fair.

Life does not always deliver equal portions to everyone. When my sons were younger, I remember trying to split a Baby Ruth candy bar in equal parts. Joshua, my youngest, began protesting because, in his opinion, his older brother had more peanuts. The first thing that came out of his mouth: “NOT FAIR! He has more peanuts than I do.”

That is exactly how life is. It is not divided into equal portions and that is when we scream: “Life is not fair!” Sometimes our portion of life does not seem right. Consequently, we are disappointed, angry, and if we are not careful, we become bitter. Bitterness is often a by-product of finding yourself stressed to your breaking point. All of us can recall moments of unfairness. We find ourselves saying “this should not be happening to me.”

Life Is Unfair

The fact is, you are going to experience pain in life through circumstances, from other people, sometimes intentionally, and sometimes unintentionally. You cannot keep yourself from painful moments. Although you cannot control your circumstances, you can control your response, your reaction, and how you choose to react to a particular circumstance or person that has hurt you. How do you respond when life is not fair?

Life isn’t fair. It does not always deliver equal portions to everyone.

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