How Do I Stay Close to Jesus?

Most Christians want to feel close to Jesus. But what does that actually look like in everyday life?

Jesus gives us the answer in John 15: remain in me.

Stay in His Word

Jesus says:

“If you remain in me and my words remain in you...”John 15:7

God's Word teaches us who Jesus is, what He has done, and how He wants us to live.

When we regularly read Scripture, we give God's message a place in our thoughts and decisions.

You do not need to read five chapters every morning to stay close to Jesus. Start with Scripture you can read carefully, understand, and put into practice.

Talk With God

Prayer is another way we remain close to Jesus.

Prayer is talking with Him, listening to Him through His Word, thanking Him, confessing our sin, bringing Him our worries, and asking for His help.

You can talk with Jesus throughout your day.

Obey What He Says

Jesus connects abiding with obedience:

“If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love.”John 15:10

Following Jesus means listening and responding.

When Scripture shows you something that needs to change, obey Him.

Bring Your Whole Day to Jesus

You do not have to wait until morning Bible reading or evening prayer to be with Jesus.

Talk to Him while you work. Ask for His wisdom before a difficult conversation. Thank Him when something goes well. Turn to Him when you are anxious or tempted.

Learn to live with Jesus throughout the day.

You will have days when you feel close to Him and days when you don't. Your relationship with Christ is not measured only by your feelings.

Keep coming back to Him.

Stay in His Word. Pray. Obey. Depend on Him. Keep walking with Him.

That is what it looks like to stay close to Jesus.

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ROOTED | Formation: Abide in Christ

This article is based on the ROOTED Discipleship Program.