We long for God’s transformation in our lives, but where do we start? How do we begin to change? Spiritual growth can feel so daunting, but it truly is a journey. No matter who you are—or where you are in your relationship with God—growth requires drawing near to God and allowing him to speak to our hearts, changing us from the inside out.

God is eager to walk with us each and every day. In the process, our simple, everyday moments become sacred

God wants to be loved and even in a sense “courted” – which means that we can’t be passive partners in the relationship.  We need to pursue God as we would the persons we love.

So as we make our way through these last weeks of ordinary time before Lent, here a few steps – in no particular order – that can help us draw closer to God.

First, start by listening to him.  Faith isn’t a 12-step action program.  Nor is it an algebra problem that needs to be “solved.”  It’s a love affair.  As with a spouse, the most important thing we can do is to be present and listen.  This requires the investment of time and focus.

If a spirit of impatience or pretending to listen doesn’t work with your spouse, why would it work with God?

You have to engage. Modern life is too often built on the marketing of half-truths and lies about who we are and what we deserve.  Many of the lies are well-intentioned and not even very harmful — but they’re still lies.  You cannot run around proclaiming that you are a Godly person, if you don’t know God.

Start with prayer. Set time apart everyday for prayer. Have a deep conversation with him. The same way you would text a friend. Text God and tune in. Set aside a prayer corner. It’s okay to have coffee with Jesus. Our God is a live God.  Act like it!

It may be hard the first time but I promise it will pay off!