Three Ways to Grow Closer to God in 2026

Growing closer to God is a journey that many seek, especially as a new year brings fresh opportunities for spiritual renewal. In 2026, you can deepen your relationship with God through intentional practices grounded in Scripture. This article explores three practical ways to draw nearer to God. Each of these areas offers a clear path to strengthen your faith and experience God’s presence more fully.

1. Commit to Daily Prayer and Meditation on God’s Word

Prayer is the foundation of a close relationship with God. It is how we communicate with Him, express our hearts, and listen for His guidance. In 2026, making daily prayer a non-negotiable part of your routine can transform your spiritual life. The Bible encourages us to have constant fellowship with God.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 - “Pray without ceasing.”

This does not mean praying every second but maintaining a prayerful attitude throughout the day. It means turning to God in moments of joy, struggle, and decision. Meditating on Scripture deepens your understanding of God’s character and His promises.

Psalm 1:2 - “But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.”

Here, meditation means "thoughtful reflection", allowing God’s Word to shape your thoughts and actions. When you meditate on God's word throughout the day, it will keep you out of sin, reduce your struggle with temptation, and allow you to focus on the blessings in your life. This daily discipline creates a habit that keeps your heart in line with God and helps to keep you on the narrow path.

Practical steps to build this habit:

• Set a specific time each day for prayer and Bible reading, even if just 10 minutes.

• Use a journal to write prayers and insights from Scripture.

• Memorize key verses that encourage and guide you.

• Pray aloud or silently, focusing on listening as much as speaking.

2. Be a Blessing... Serve Others

Serving others reflects God’s love and draws you closer to Him by living out His commands. Too often, we spend our time looking for our next blessing. When we do this, it causes us to miss out on great opportunities to be a blessing to others. Jesus taught that loving and serving others is a direct way to honor God.

Matthew 25:40 - “Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”

Serving is more than an act; it is a spiritual practice that aligns your heart with God’s compassion. When you spend your time serving others, it allows them to see God's goodness through you. This year, instead of waiting for others to serve you, get up and serve others! Serving others also challenges self-centeredness and opens your heart to God’s work in the world. It reminds you that your faith is alive and active, not just a private belief.

Ways to serve others:

• Talk with your pastor and find a place to serve in your church.

• Find someone that is struggling and be a blessing to them.

• Practice small acts of kindness daily, such as listening to someone in distress or helping a neighbor.

• Support missions and the spread of the gospel around the world.

3. Cultivate a Spirit of Thankfulness and Worship

Gratitude and worship are powerful ways to deepen your connection with God. Recognizing God’s blessings and praising Him shifts your focus from life’s difficulties to His goodness. The Bible calls believers to give thanks in all circumstances.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 - “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

This attitude of thankfulness nurtures joy and peace, even amid trials. Worship, both private and corporate, gives God the glory that he deserves and renews your spirit. Psalm 95:6 encourages, “O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker.” Worship is more than singing; it is a heartfelt response to God’s greatness. We worship God through our actions. By the giving of our time, money, energy, and resources, we truly worship the Creator. This practice transforms your mindset and draws you into deeper fellowship with God.

How to practice thankfulness and worship daily:

• Keep a gratitude journal listing daily blessings and answered prayers.

• Set aside moments to worship through music, prayer, or silent adoration.

• Meet regularly with your church for worship services and fellowship.

• Reflect on God’s goodness in your life.

• Give to God because he is worthy.