If you’ve ever felt like you’re just treading water spiritually, or maybe even drifting, I get it. Let’s talk about some key points and practical ways we can grow in our faith.
What Does It Mean to Deepen Your Relationship with Jesus?
Deepening our relationship with Jesus is a lifelong journey. It’s more than just knowing about Him—it’s about truly knowing Him, letting Him into every part of our lives, and allowing Him to shape us. This kind of growth takes intentional effort. We have to be open to where He’s leading us and willing to surrender areas of our life we may have held back.
One of the key things we discussed in this week’s “Own the Vision: Deepen” sermon was the absolute necessity of community. We weren’t created to do life alone. God knew from the beginning that we would need others alongside us. Think about it: He said it wasn’t good for Adam to be alone, and the same goes for us. When we live in community, we give others the opportunity to speak into our lives, hold us accountable, and walk with us through the highs and lows of life. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful this can be in my own journey.
So, how do we actually go about deepening our relationship with Jesus? There are a few key things I want to highlight.
1. Submit to God—and to Community
James 4:7 reminds us to “submit yourselves, then, to God.” This isn’t just about surrendering big decisions to Him, but aligning every part of our life with His will. It also means submitting to the idea of community—letting others help us stay on track and inviting them to speak truth into our lives when we need it most.
2. Resist Temptation—Together
James 4:7 also says, “resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Temptation is one of those things that thrives in isolation. But when we face it alongside others, we become so much stronger. I know there have been times in my life where a trusted friend helped me resist temptation by simply being there and holding me accountable. That’s the power of spiritual community—facing the battle together.
3. Draw Near to God
James 4:8 invites us to “come near to God, and He will come near to you.” This is a powerful reminder that our relationship with Jesus requires movement. It’s not a passive thing. If we’re not actively pursuing Him, we can easily drift. It’s important to be intentional—whether it’s through prayer, reading Scripture, or just sitting quietly in His presence.
4. Personal Repentance—With the Support of Community
James 4:8 also speaks to the need for repentance. We’re called to “wash your hands... and purify your hearts.” Repentance is something deeply personal, but it’s also incredibly powerful when we bring it into the light of community. When we share our struggles and sins with others, we open the door for support and accountability. That’s how real change happens.
5. Humility and Service
James 4:10 says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.” Humility is a cornerstone of deepening our relationship with Jesus. We see Jesus model this so beautifully when He washes His disciples’ feet. It’s a reminder that true growth comes through service. If we want to grow closer to Jesus, we have to be willing to serve others with that same humility.
A Challenge for This Week
This week, I want to challenge you to take a step toward deepening your relationship with Jesus. Here are a few ways you can do that:
1. Join a Group: If you’re not already part of a small group, Sunday school class, or any other community, now is the time. We need each other for growth and accountability.
2. Practice Personal Repentance: Take a moment to reflect on any areas of your life where you need to repent and turn back to God. Share this with a trusted friend or group, so you’re not walking that journey alone.
3. Serve Others: Find a way to serve someone this week. It doesn’t have to be huge—just an act of kindness or service that reflects Jesus’ heart for others.
Take some time to reflect on these questions:
• How can I submit more fully to God and trust His direction in my life?
• Am I actively involved in a community that supports my spiritual growth?
• Are there areas of my life where I need to seek repentance and accountability?
• How can I serve others and demonstrate humility this week?
I hope this encourages you to take the next step in deepening your relationship with Jesus. We’re on this journey together, and I’m grateful to walk it alongside you. Let’s commit to growing in faith and community, knowing that Jesus is with us every step of the way.
Blessings,Pastor John Joiner
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