The journey begins when we accept Christ as savior. The Holy Spirit comes to life within us and we gain more understanding of scripture. ⁽¹⁾  Our desire to learn more, a Spiritual hunger of sorts, becomes evident. We each are unique, and while the process normally has similarities, it usually is different for each person who chooses a Faith journey. For me, about a year after I became a Christian, I undertook a comprehensive Bible study. The wife of a good friend, and fellow insurance agent, was teaching the Bethel Bible Series. Developed by the Institute of Lutheran Theology, the course is an overview of the Bible from Genesis through Revelation. I have found the more I study God’s Word, the clearer my understanding of Jesus becomes. In turn the more desire I have to grow closer to Him. A healthy relationship is like a living organism. Getting the right food, in appropriate amounts, results in healthy growth. As in the natural, so in the Spiritual. ⁽²⁾ Reading God’s Word and listening to worship music are two ways I nourish myself Spiritually. I like to explain the relationship I have with Jesus as a life change for a lifetime. It’s not a weekend outing! Romans 12:2 NIV Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. The Holy Spirit works in our lives to transform us into the likeness of Jesus. The fruit of the Spirit should become evident in our lives, as we grow and mature Spiritually. ⁽³⁾ The more I study God’s Word, the more I realize there is so much I don’t know. I have but scratched the surface of knowing God. An activity I find beneficial is spending time alone, quietly, in the presence of God. In this atmosphere I am able to think on His goodness, His faithfulness, His provision, His majesty. I continue to be amazed at how the Holy Spirit connects with my spirit, and I am able to sense His presence. He desires our pure and heartfelt worship and devotion. Our busy lives can make it difficult to slow down and quiet ourselves as we should. It takes determination, at least for me, to achieve some success. I like to go out on our patio where I can shut out life’s numerous distractions and spend time in His presence. Your desire to grow in your relationship with Jesus will increase as you experience His presence. My journey has been worthwhile and filled with His blessings. I pray and believe you will find the same will be true for you.

(1) 1 John 4:4, 2 Timothy 1:14  NLT                                                                                                                                                                                                                   (2) 1 Corinthians 12:12, John 3:6 NLT                                                                                                                                                                                                             (3) Galatians 5:22-26 AMP