Exploring My Relationship with God: A Personal Journey

The path of faith and spiritual exploration is a deeply personal one. Many of us are brought up within a certain religious framework, but as we grow older, we often find ourselves questioning and exploring our beliefs more deeply. This was certainly my experience. I was raised Christian, but at 15, I began to feel a disconnect with my faith, even though I still hold on to the belief in God.

How to Connect with God: A Non-Denominational Approach

If you were Jewish, I might suggest finding a local synagogue and starting by lighting Shabat candles on Friday nights, enjoying the flickering flames, and drinking a sip of wine. This simple ritual can provide a regular practice that fosters reflection and a sense of community, especially when you consider that many others are partaking in the same tradition at the same time. But even if you are not Jewish, I encourage you to give this a try—a spiritual exercise like this can be beneficial for anyone seeking a deeper connection with their faith.

The Human Need for Meaning

Humans, unlike most other animals, seek more than just basic needs like food, sleep, and reproduction. We yearn to understand our purpose and the meaning of our lives. From a theological perspective, this longing comes from the fact that humans were created in God's image. Matthew 5:3 teaches us, 'Happy are those conscious of their spiritual needs.' Another verse, James 4:8, invites us to draw closer to God. Faith and belief in the divine are personal choices, and it’s important to embrace the journey of knowing and understanding God on your own terms.

The Nature of Relationships with God

Just like any other relationship, whether it be with a spouse, friend, or family member, the key to understanding your relationship with God lies within yourself and your own experiences. You are the one who knows your own thoughts, feelings, and inner desires. You do not need to ask a stranger to tell you what kind of relationship you have with God or with anyone else. You should be the one asking God and listening to your own heart.

The absence of a direct, audible conversation with God can indeed make the journey more challenging. However, this is similar to how we approach relationships with people in our lives. Often, we cannot always get clear answers when we ask someone directly; sometimes, we need to sit quietly and listen. Pay attention to the subtle signs and clues. Over time, a connection will become more apparent.

Trusting the Journey

Simply put, the process of finding and understanding your relationship with God parallels the personal journey each of us takes in exploring relationships with others. With patience, reflection, and genuine effort to connect, you can find the answers that make your spiritual path more fulfilling.