Healthy Relationships: The Seven ConnectionsSample

Connection One - God

Our journey of faith begins with our relationship with God. Prayer is our direct line to Him, where we share our hearts, seek guidance, and give thanks. Just like talking to a close friend, prayer deepens our bond with God and strengthens our faith.

Listening, through reading the Bible, is how God speaks to us, revealing His character, will, and promises. Reading the Bible isn't just about learning; it's about encountering God's presence and understanding His plan for us.

Daily personal devotions — time for prayer and Bible study — help us grow closer to God. Like any relationship, spending intentional time with God strengthens our spiritual connection. These moments also prepare us to share our faith with others. As we experience God through prayer and Scripture, we're inspired to share His love and truth with those around us.

Connection One with God is all about prayer, listening to Him through the Bible, daily devotions, and sharing our faith journey. This foundation allows us to deepen our relationship with God and share His message of love with the world.

In Summary:

Developing a strong walk with God.

Talking = Prayer.

Listening = Bible reading.

Repeatedly = The habit of personal devotion.

Reproducible Walk Leading to Evangelism = Sharing the message of the Gospel and sharing what you do that helps you connect with God.

Discussion/ Reflection Questions

1. Prayer and Bible Reading: How do you currently prioritize prayer and Bible reading in your daily life? What changes could you make to deepen these practices and enhance your relationship with God?
2. Personal Devotions: Reflect on the concept of personal devotions as a habit that shapes spiritual growth. What strategies or disciplines have helped you maintain consistent personal devotional times? How do these moments impact your spiritual journey?
3. Prayer as Communication: How does viewing prayer as a conversation with God rather than a one-sided activity impact your approach to prayer? How can you deepen your prayer life to cultivate a more intimate relationship with God?
4. Bible Reading and Listening: Reflect on a recent experience where reading Scripture led to a deeper understanding of God's character or guidance for a specific situation in your life. How can regular Bible reading enhance your spiritual journey and empower you to live out your faith more effectively?

Real World Application

• Establish a Daily Routine: Start each day with intentional prayer and Bible reading. Set aside a specific time and place where you can consistently engage with God through these disciplines. This regular practice will help deepen your relationship with God and align your thoughts with His Word.

Closing Prayer

• Heavenly Father, Thank you for revealing the importance of prayer, Scripture, and daily devotion in our relationship with you. Help us establish a consistent practice of seeking you through prayer and reading your Word. Grant us courage and compassion to share the Gospel with others, reflecting your love in all we do. Strengthen our faith and unite us with fellow believers for encouragement and growth in our communities and churches. May our lives glorify you. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.