HOW TO ESTABLISH ROUTINES THAT ENCOURAGE DEEP FRIENDSHIP WITH GOD - NATE THOMAS, MANAGER OF MARKETING AND DEVELOPMENT
In the midst of the demands of ministry, it’s easy to focus on shepherding others while unintentionally neglecting our own spiritual health. However, as pastors, maintaining a deep friendship with God is not only vital for personal growth but also for effective ministry. A genuine, thriving relationship with the Lord begins with intentional routines that anchor us in His presence.
You may have looked at the topic and thought to yourself, “This is just white noise, I am fine since I work in ministry.” I have fallen victim to that thought. But the truth is, the current generation of pastors is retiring and many pastors and ministry leaders are leaving at higher rates than we have ever seen before.
Establishing routines that foster deep friendship with God has always been important, but now our very ministry rhythms are in danger. Here are four reminders of ways how you can foster deep friendship with God in your daily life TODAY:
1. Build a Consistent Prayer Life
Philippians 4:6 reminds us to “not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Practical Application:
Morning Prayer Routine: Dedicate the first 15 minutes of your day to focused prayer, presenting your plans, struggles, and joys to the Lord.
Prayer Walks: Step away from the busyness of ministry by taking regular prayer walks, interceding for your congregation and seeking God’s guidance.
Set Alarms for Prayer: Use technology as a tool by setting alarms throughout the day to pause for a brief moment of connection with God.
Takeaway Point: A consistent prayer life keeps you grounded in God’s peace and aligned with His will.
2. Immerse Yourself in the Word
The Bible is the ultimate source of truth. Regular Scripture engagement transforms our minds (Romans 12:2) and equips us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). As someone who does not regularly enjoy reading, I did not think this was a discipline that was possible for me to enjoy. However, by staying committed to learning more daily, God has fueled a passion for diving deep in His word each day.
Practical Application:
Scripture Journaling: Read a chapter daily and write a reflection, focusing on how God is speaking to you personally.
Monthly Scripture Challenges: Commit to memorizing one verse a week with your pastoral team or family.
Supplemented Bible Reading Plans: Find a commentary series that is Truth-based and communicated in a way you understand and work through books of the Bible slowly. I recommend the Exalting Christ Commentary.
Takeaway Point: Consistent time in Scripture deepens our understanding of God’s heart and shapes our response to His call.
3. Embrace Rhythms of Rest and Reflection
In a culture that often equates busyness with productivity, pastors must embrace the Sabbath and other moments of rest as acts of obedience and trust in God. Many ministry leaders experience guilt for stepping away and allowing themselves to rest. However, in Scripture, we see many examples of Christ withdrawing to rest. Here are some ways we can follow that example.
Practical Application:
Weekly Sabbath Practice: Dedicate one day a week to rest, focusing on family, prayer, and activities that rejuvenate your spirit.
Quarterly Personal Retreats: Step away for a day of solitude to reflect, pray, and realign with God’s direction.
Journaling Gratitude: At the end of each day, write down three things you’re grateful for to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness.
Takeaway Point: Resting in God’s presence restores your spirit and strengthens your ability to serve.
4. Cultivate Accountability and Community
Fellowship as a means of growth and encouragement in faith is important. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” As a ministry leader, you may be pouring out so often that you fail to find time to invest in the personal relationships with others that can pour into you. Here are some ways to tip those scales in the other direction.
Practical Application:
Pastoral Prayer Groups: Meet weekly with fellow pastors to share prayer requests and hold each other accountable.
Family Devotions: Create a regular rhythm of prayer and Bible study with your family to lead by example.
Mentorship Relationships: Seek out a mentor for spiritual guidance and offer mentorship to younger pastors.
Takeaway Point: True friendship with God flourishes when shared in community with others who point us back to Him.
Establishing routines of prayer, Scripture, rest, and accountability empowers ministry leaders to deepen our friendship with God and lead with authenticity. By committing to these rhythms, you not only nurture your relationship with the Lord but also create a spiritual overflow that impacts your congregation and ministry.