I wanted to share this for a young lady named Hazel that wanted to deepen her relationship with the Lord. Unfortunately, I can see that I have notifications but it will not open them for me to see them. Here you go Hazel: To connect with and be with God, focus on building a personal relationship through prayer, studying scripture, and practicing gratitude. This involves intentionally spending time with God, listening to His guidance, and trusting Him with your life. Cultivating a heart for God and seeking His will are key aspects of this journey. Here's a more detailed breakdown: 1. Cultivate a Relationship Through Prayer: Make it a daily practice: Regularly set aside time to pray, both speaking to God and listening for His guidance. Be honest and open: Share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns with God as you would with a close friend. Express gratitude: Start by thanking God for His blessings and then move into other areas of prayer. 2. Study God's Word: Read the Bible regularly: Engage with scripture, reflecting on its meaning and how it applies to your life. Seek understanding: Don't just read passively; strive to understand God's character, His will, and His promises. Meditate on His Word: Ponder the scriptures, allowing them to shape your thoughts and actions. 3. Trust and Surrender: Put your trust in God: Recognize that He is reliable, truthful, and capable of guiding you. Surrender control: Acknowledge that you cannot control everything and trust God with the things you cannot manage. Live with faith, not fear: Act on your faith, even when facing difficult circumstances. 4. Seek God's Will: Ask for guidance: Pray for wisdom and discernment to understand and follow God's plan for your life. Recognize His leading: Pay attention to the subtle ways God communicates with you, such as through peace, joy, and prompting to serve others. Be open to change: Allow God to transform your desires and align them with His. 5. Practice Gratitude: Acknowledge God's blessings: Make a habit of expressing thankfulness for the good things in your life, both big and small. Develop a grateful heart: Gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have, fostering a closer connection with God. 6. Seek Community and Fellowship: Connect with other believers: Engage in worship services, small groups, or other activities where you can learn from and support one another. Share your journey: Discuss your experiences and challenges with others who share your faith.