Hosanna
In a world that is speeding up daily, where you are overwhelmed with duties schedules and distractions, many of us forget to check in with the two most meaningful relationships that we will ever have, our relationship with God and our relationship with ourselves. At Hosanna City of Refuge Church, we believe that, when you have those two relationships as foundations, you will have a life full of peace, perspective, and Godly purpose.
Drawing Closer to God: The Foundation of Life
Your relationship with God is the support on which all other things rest. When we are disconnected from a relationship with Him, life can seem difficult, lonely, or unstable. God is not some distant being watching over us from afar, He is your Father, He is the comforter, and He is your guide.
You can bring His presence to your heart through prayer, worship, and faith. You do not have to make a complicated schedule or practice to spend time with God. It does not have to be perfect, spending time with God is about intention. It could be a morning prayer before you head out to work, it could be a moment of quiet reflection before bed. But every moment spent with God is building you up in spirit.
At Hosanna City of Refuge Church, we have watched countless lives transformed by the simple notion that when we put God first, everything else comes together. The challenges may not go away, but you’re bringing strength and peace to each situation knowing you’re not alone.
As James 4:8 (NIV) reminds us,
“Come near to God and He will come near to you.”
The closer you come to Him, the clearer He will make your path and the more peace you will feel in your heart.
Loving Yourself Like God Loves You
Some people find that it is easier to love others than to love themselves. The truth is, you cannot love someone else completely until you learn to love yourself, the way in which God loves you. You’re His creation, made beautifully and wonderfully. When you honor yourself, you honor God.
Self-love is NOT self-importance or pride; it is thankfulness for the life and the soul that God has given you. Self-love recognizes that you are worthy of care, forgiveness, and kindness.
Take time to rest. Talk to yourself gently. Forgive yourself for your mistakes and let the guilt go. Even at your weakest, your Creator loves you deeply.
We at the Hosanna City of Refuge Church frequently remind our community that taking care of yourself is NOT selfish, but spiritual. When you take care of your mind, body, and soul, you prepare yourself to serve others and fulfill your life’s purpose for God.
The Connection Between God and Self
Your relationship with God and your relationship with yourself are intertwined. When you feel separate from God, often, you don’t feel connected to your inner peace. When you reconnect with Him, you begin to see yourself how He sees you: loved, chosen, and able.
As your faith progresses, your confidence thrives as well. Your decisions are made not from a place of fear; they come from a place of trust in His plan. You have more patience with yourself, more compassion for others, and more hope for what’s ahead.
Practical Approaches to Deepen Both
Creating a healthy relationship with God and yourself doesn’t have to start with huge leaps – it can really be based on everyday, deliberate steps.
- Begin your day with prayer or being grateful.
- Take time in silence to reflect or read God’s word.
- Record your thoughts and thank God for the little things.
- Be surrounded by people who build you in faith.
- Find a church family – like Hosanna City of Refuge Church – who will cultivate faith and fellowship as part of their mission.
Over time, these small practices will change your mind and restore your spirit.
A Final Word of Encouragement
Faith lasts a lifetime, and each new day brings a new opportunity to know God and know yourself a little better. You have never strayed too far, never too broken, and it is never too late to begin again.
At Hosanna City of Refuge Church, we welcome you to take part in this journey to meet a God that deepens your heart, and to earnestly love yourself the way that He loves you.
So today, take a moment to pause.
“Take some time to talk to God”
“Take some time to listen to your heart”
And remember that when you love Him and love yourself wholly, you take a step into the life that you always dreamed you could live.
