It is sometimes a challenge just to keep our sanity, let alone our spirituality. As a Christian, there have been so many times where I just wanted to give in to the very things that are not of God. However, my purpose in life is way too important for me to throw in the towel--this goes for you, too! YOU have a special gift and a purpose that can only be fulfilled by consistent faith and hard work. Focusing on HIM, more than our usual distractions, helps to clear and organize the usual tornado of thoughts and ideas in our minds. I get stressed out easily when it comes to all the different things I give my attention to. From dancing, writing, and spending time with friends, to doing the things that I must do like go to school, and work, it’s easy for me to feel like I’m drowning in this pool called life. But, once I learned to get to know God more through his written word in the Bible, and began engaging in devotional services and a consistent, prayerful life, a newfound peace was added into the mix of it all. I’m no preacher, just a fellow follower of Jesus Christ wanting to help others find peace where there seem to be no sign of any. So! Without further ado, here is a list of things that have helped me stay close to God throughout the hectic routines of life:

1. Pray before you go to bed AND when you awaken. This sets your mind on God at the start of the day and the end of your night. If you don’t know what to say to Him before you go to bed, just tell God thank you for covering you, your family, friends, and even your home from dangers seen and unseen. Thank Him for allowing you to see another day. Ask God for forgiveness for the sins you have knowingly and unknowingly committed. Ask Him to ease your body and mind so that you can have a restful sleep and be ready for the next day. These are just prompts, you don’t have to say all or even any of these things. However, always remember if you’re at a lost of words during your prayer time just thank Him for being the wonderful God that He is.

1. Read the Bible! Just pick a chapter and read it! If you don’t have a physical Bible near you, get the Bible app; there are numerous ones to choose from. The Bible holds many beautiful and encouraging stories inside, as well as stories that’ll help to privately convict you and teach you wrong from right. Just look inside!

1. If you haven’t already, find a church home near you! Churches come in all shapes, sizes, denominations, and schedules. Find the one that feels right for you and go to the services and events that they host. Being connected to other lovers of Christ helps strenghten your relationship with Him. Just remember, churches are full of all types of people and we’re ALL trying to get right. Which means some people can be very, very wrong. Never let a small number of hurtful people steer you away from God. NEVER.

1. Listen to music that praises God! There are SOO many types. From Christian, to Gospel, to Gospel Rap to Christian Pop. Pick a genre and have fun while praising God!

Make it your business to routinely go about these things and watch you feel much closer to God! Now go ahead, start! J Stay Blessed.