Developing a deeper relationship with God is the heart’s desire of every believer. However, it’s easy to get stuck in spiritual laziness – not taking time to pray or read the Bible daily. In this blog post, we’ll explore practical yet spiritual habits to grow closer to the Lord through consistent prayer and Bible reading.
Why Consistency Matters
Being a Christian isn’t just about a one-time decision. It’s about an ongoing relationship with Jesus Christ. But that relationship requires regular communication – through prayer and studying the Word. As Jesus told his disciples:
“Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing but the body is weak!” (Matthew 26:41)
We may desire spiritual things, but our flesh resists making them a priority. That’s why consistency is so key. As Paul wrote:
“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)
If we persist in spiritual disciplines, we will reap spiritual fruit and maturity.
Overcoming Spiritual Laziness
What keeps us from being consistent? Spiritual laziness. It stunts growth, wastes gifts, and prevents us from knowing God’s best.
We must eliminate laziness through implementing three habits:
- Discipline: Making the daily choice to pray and read the Word, even starting small (5 minutes of prayer, 1 chapter of the Bible). As we persist, it gets easier as the flesh loses strength.
- Intentionality: Slowing down and becoming aware of God’s constant abiding presence. He dwells within us!
- Organization: Structuring our day and managing time so we steward it well, including time for God.
Encountering God in Prayer
Prayer is simply communicating with God. It’s not meant to be a religious ritual, but a relationship. As Acts 17:27 says, God desires for us to “reach out for him and find him.”
So how can we encounter God’s presence in deeper ways through prayer?
Developing a Lifestyle of Prayer
Many people toss up quick prayers without really communing with the Lord. But he wants us to:
- Have extended times of focused prayer (more than just a few seconds or minutes)
- Listen to what God wants to speak to our hearts
- Build relationship, not just make requests
This takes time and consistency. As we pray daily, it becomes easier and more natural.
Slowing Down
Today’s culture values speed, instant gratification, and convenience. But God operates on his own timeline, not ours. As Isaiah 40:31 reminds us:
“Those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength.”
We must slow our pace and wait on God, rather than rushing him or getting impatient. He promises to renew us as we wait.
Recognizing God’s Nearness
God doesn’t live far off. His Spirit abides within all believers! We don’t have to strive to get closer. As Acts 17:27 says:
“[God] is not far from any one of us.”
Don’t wait for a feeling to confirm this. Accept it as spiritual truth. Pray with expectancy since God is right with you.
Being Patient for Change
Don’t expect instant perfection. Progress takes time. Keep praying consistently, and you’ll notice changes over weeks and months. Little by little, prayer becomes easier as you practice God’s presence.
Encountering God Through Scripture
In addition to prayer, studying the Bible helps us connect with God. It equips us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Reading Consistently
It’s vital to read the Word daily, not just sporadically. This allows its truths to renew our minds (Romans 12:2). Even starting with just 5 minutes a day trains us in consistency.
Meditating Intentionally
We shouldn’t just rush through our reading. Take time to meditate and understand what the Spirit is saying. The Psalmist said:
“I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways.” (Psalm 119:15)
This takes effort but pays off richly.
Receiving Revelation
As we read Scripture consistently, we’ll gain fresh revelation. The Holy Spirit will illuminate new truths and how to apply them.
Gaining Understanding
It’s normal for difficult passages to challenge us. But persistence causes them to open up. Isaiah said:
“Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine?” (Isaiah 28:9)
Those who spend time in the Word will gain understanding.
Overcoming Excuses and Distractions
What keeps us from prayer and Scripture reading? Often our own excuses and distractions. For example:
- “I don’t have time.” But we make time for what matters. Just 5-10 minutes a day can start forming a habit.
- “It’s too hard.” Persistence breaks resistance. It gets easier the more we do it.
- “It’s boring or confusing.” Pray for the Spirit’s help. He will give understanding and make the Word come alive.
- “I don’t feel like it.” Walk by faith in God’s promises, not feelings. Obedience brings blessing.
We have to silence these excuses, eliminate distractions, and simply start somewhere.
Reduce Screen Time
One practical way to make more time? Reduce screen time. Monitor phone/TV use and cut back as needed. Then use that time for prayer and Bible reading instead.
Seek Accountability
Ask a spiritually mature friend to hold you accountable. Share your goals for consistency and have them regularly check in on your progress. We need each other!
Proverbs 27:17 says:
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
Consistency Leads to Breakthrough
As we build these spiritual habits, what can we expect? Breakthrough! Praying and studying the Word daily strengthens our spirit man. Then we experience more:
- Intimacy with God
- Faith rising up
- Healing and deliverance breakthroughs
- Victory over temptation and sin
- Wisdom and clarity for decisions
- Fresh vision for our destiny
God desires a deep relationship with each of his children. As we seek him through prayer and the Word, we will encounter his presence in new dimensions. Let’s overcome laziness and distractions by God’s grace and determine to be consistent. Our breakthrough awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I pray each day?
Start with 5-10 minutes daily, then increase as your schedule allows. It’s about consistency more than quantity. Some days you may pray deeper and longer.
What’s the best time of day to pray and read the Bible?
Set a consistent time that works for you – morning, afternoon or evening. Many people find praying as they wake up helps focus the day.
What if I keep failing at consistency?
Don’t let the enemy condemn you. Just get right back on track the next day. God’s mercies are new every morning! (Lamentations 3:22-23) Ask someone to hold you accountable.
What should I do during my prayer time?
Worship, read the Word, listen for God’s voice, intercede for needs, confess any sins that come to mind. Silence and solitude before God are also valuable.
How do I hear God speak?
God speaks through His Word, an inner knowing in our spirit, visions, dreams, and even natural circumstances lined up by Him. Ask the Holy Spirit for help discerning His voice.
What’s the most important factor in success?
Consistence! Keep praying daily and opening the Bible, no matter how difficult it is at first. Persisting through resistance builds spiritual strength.
May God bless you as you pursue a deeper relationship with Him through consistent time in prayer and the Word. He promises to draw near to us as we draw near to Him (James 4:8). Let’s eliminate spiritual laziness and determine to encounter God each day!
