2-18-2024 7:05am

Strong spirits: talk to God?

Photo: Barry Mulling

What is the simplest way to connect to God? I'd say, talk to him.

When we talk to God, we call it prayer. But really, it is just talking to God. There is no right way. It varies greatly from person to person and situation to situation. Talking to God is a great thing, but what makes it even better is that he talks to us, too!

And how does he talk to us? In his Word, the Bible. In our thoughts. In nature. From other people. Lots of ways. We do have to listen. We do have to pay attention. We have to believe he exists and is talking to us.

There are so many ways to pray. The most important thing is that we do it! And that we stick to it! Like any other skill, practice makes perfect. Jesus prayed - a lot! And he encouraged his disciples - and us - to do the same.

Don't know how to begin? Just start. Tell him what's on your mind. He wants to hear from you. And he wants to talk to you. Try it...

Gary Schwerin serves as pastor at Caledonia Congregational Church. He is also the Spiritual Development Minister for the YMCA of the Rock River Valley and Executive Director of Bridge Ministries of Rockford. Prior to launching Bridge Ministries, Gary spent many years in leadership with Young Life. His columns appear here every Sunday - subscribe to our daily email to see all our stories and events.