What’s the most valuable relationship in your life? If your answer is God—are you actively growing closer to Him? Our relationship with God is the foundation for everything else in life, yet sometimes, our bond with Him ceases to grow. We miss out on what He has to offer us in the present.

Today, let’s pause and examine our hearts together. Is something holding you back from growing closer to God? Tap over to read. #trustGod #mareedee
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What Might Be Holding You Back from Growing Closer to God?

Each person’s answer to this question is unique. What holds us back often depends on our unique circumstances, which can shift over time. Identifying these obstacles can help us realign our focus and deepen our bond with the Lord.

Here are some common challenges:

1. Unexpected Circumstances

Life throws us curve balls when we least expect them, which can drive us closer to God or pull us away. For many, difficult times are when they cling to Jesus the most. But for others, challenges create distance.

Are you facing an unexpected situation, making it hard to lean on God?

2. Disappointment with God

Have you ever felt let down by the Lord? Sometimes, our discontent with God’s lack of intervention keeps us from drawing close to Him. We wonder – how could a good God allow such pain in our lives or our world? These feelings can create barriers in our relationship.

I’ve been there myself. On more than one occasion, I built walls between God and me. If this resonates with you, I invite you to read “When You Are Disappointed in God.”

Disappointment in God can create walls in our relationship with Him. But remember—He’s big enough for our doubts and patient with our hearts. #ChristianEncouragement #FaithInAction
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3. Life Feels Status Quo

Smooth sailing in life can sometimes lead to complacency in our faith. Of course, we don’t want our circumstances to go awry. Yet, when our journey is easy, we sometimes don’t feel a desperate need for God, and our spiritual growth slows.

When I need to embrace life in the midst of the unexpected, trusting God seems the only viable option, especially when circumstances are beyond my ability.

Have you adjusted to a “new normal” and unintentionally drifted from God? Staying intentional in all seasons of life is key to nurturing this vital relationship.

Life’s smooth seasons can create distance from God if we’re not careful. Don’t wait for desperation—choose daily connection now. #FaithOverFeelings #GrowCloserToGod
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4. Misplaced Priorities

We make time for what’s most important to us. Is God still at the top of your priority list? If not, this is a good moment to reevaluate and reset your focus.

5. Busy Schedules

The busyness of life often squeezes out our time with the Lord. Even today, I postponed my quiet time with Him to finish this post!

It is easy to focus on what we need to get done, thinking we will return to God afterward. However, as we know –  many times, that never happens.

Have you noticed how often the urgent takes precedence over the eternal? Let’s commit to giving God the first part of our day—every day.

Are you making time for the most valuable relationship in your life? A deep connection with God requires intentionality. Take one step today to grow closer to Him. #FaithJourney #ChristianLiving"
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6. Overcommitment

Are you saying “yes” too often? Overcommitment can lead to exhaustion and leave little room for God. Even well-meaning commitments can pull us away if we don’t seek His guidance before taking them on.

I often jump in with both feet when something seems like a godly endeavor, and I assume God will stamp His approval on it—failing to see the impact on the time needed for my most important relationship. Do you do this, too?

Sometimes, we must relinquish specific responsibilities to make space for our most valuable relationship. God will let us know when it is time to let go of something; however, we must listen. Simply because an obligation was proper before doesn’t mean we are expected to continue with it forever. New goals usually require letting go of prior commitments.

7. Fear of Stepping Out

God often calls us to take bold steps of faith. But fear can hold us back, keeping us from experiencing the deeper relationship that comes when we trust Him fully.

Have you ever felt God nudging you to step out of the boat, only to hesitate? Isaiah 41:13 reminds us of His promise:

One year, my spiritual goal was to be ready to step out of the boat with a deeper faith and my eyes fixed on Jesus. I did it on many occasions by incorporating it into my daily prayers, even dipping my toes in places that scared me. Yet, I have to admit I climbed right back in the boat on one of God’s big pushes and declined to grow as much as I could have. 

“Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you.” – Isaiah 41:13 What fears are holding you back from trusting God fully? Step out of the boat and grow in faith! #TrustGod #BibleVerse"
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8. Lack of Intentionality

Relationships grow apart when we are not actively taking steps to draw closer, and God is no exception. Think about a friendship you once cherished that drifted apart over time. The same can happen with God if we’re not actively pursuing Him.

Thankfully, God is always ready to welcome us back. He never moves away from us; we only need to take the first step toward Him.

The good news is with God; we can always rekindle and draw closer to Him. He is still there waiting and willing to accept us back. But we will have to take steps. #spiritualgoal
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9. No Plan for Growth

Desiring to grow closer to God is a great start, but it takes intentionality and action. What steps will you take today to deepen your relationship with Him? As Psalm 16:8 says.

It takes intentionality on our part to grow closer to God. #God #spiritualgoal
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In a previous article, “How to Grow Closer in the Most Important Relationship,” I shared my secret for growing closer to God.

 What’s Holding You Back?

Take a moment to reflect: What might keep you from growing in your relationship with God?

This year, let’s set a spiritual goal together. Start by identifying any obstacles and commit to drawing closer to the One who loves you unconditionally.

Will you join me in prioritizing the most valuable relationship of your life?

Before You Go, Will You?

• Share this post with a friend who might need encouragement.
• Join the conversation: What’s one step you’ll take this week to grow closer to God? Comment below!

Addressing these obstacles will help you grow closer in the most valuable relationship and discover more of God’s love and purpose for your life.

Goal Setting: Choose the Most Important One First

Are you struggling to identify your life’s most important goal? The “Embracing Goals” workbook helps you prioritize a spiritual journey that leads to transformation. Say goodbye to failed resolutions and embrace personal growth with God at the center of your life. Commit, persevere, and align with His will to unlock unexpected success.

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The post Are You Growing Closer in the Most Valuable Relationship? appeared first on Embracing the Unexpected.