As we step into a new year, it’s natural to reflect on the past and think about the future. Maybe you’re looking back and feeling like your relationship with God wasn’t as strong as it could have been. Or maybe you’re wondering how to grow closer to Him this year.
Here’s the good news: God isn’t playing hard to get. In fact, He’s waiting for you to take a step closer to Him. Deuteronomy 4:29 says, “But if from thence thou shalt seek the Lord thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.”
Let me share a few thoughts on how you can make this year one of seeking God with all your heart.
God Wants to Be Found
Sometimes it feels like God is far away, doesn’t it? But the Bible makes it clear that He’s not hiding. James 4:8 promises, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” That’s it—take a step toward Him, and He’ll meet you right there.
King David understood this better than most. He wrote in Psalm 63:1, “My soul thirsteth for thee” and in Psalm 42:1, “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.” David wasn’t perfect, but his hunger for God is what made him a man after God’s own heart.
If you feel far from God, let me encourage you—it’s not because He’s distant. He’s waiting for you to take the first step.
Why Some Are Closer to God Than Others
Have you ever wondered why Peter, James, and John were closer to Jesus than the other disciples? Or why John seemed to have an even deeper relationship with Him than the other two? The answer is simple: they wanted to be.
Your relationship with God doesn’t depend on where you came from, how spiritual your family is, or what your past looks like. It depends on how hungry you are for Him. If you want God, He’ll show up in your life in ways you can’t imagine.
A Personal Turning Point
I remember a time in my life when I realized I needed more of God. I’d been reading about D.L. Moody, a preacher who got so desperate for God that he cried out, “Oh God, I’d rather die than go on this way.” That desperation became a turning point for him, and God started using him in incredible ways.
That story lit a fire in my heart. I knew I needed something more, so I began to seek God with all my heart. I’ll never forget the morning when everything changed. I was preparing to preach to a group of college students, and I knew—before I even opened my mouth—that God had met with me in a special way. His presence was undeniable, and the liberty I felt as I preached was unlike anything I’d experienced before.
That moment didn’t come because I earned it or deserved it. It came because I was hungry for God. And He promises to meet the seeking heart.
How You Can Seek God
So, how do you actually seek God? It’s simpler than you might think. Here are a few steps to get started:
- Be Honest with God
Start by telling God exactly where you are. If you’re feeling distant, distracted, or stuck, admit it. Moody’s turning point came when he prayed, “Oh God, I’d rather die than go on this way.” Honesty is the first step. - Make Time for Him
Let’s be real—if you’re too busy for God, you won’t get closer to Him. Set aside time every day to read the Bible and pray. This isn’t about checking a box; it’s about connecting with the One who loves you. - Believe He’ll Show Up
God promises that if you seek Him, you’ll find Him. Approach Him with expectation, trusting that He’ll meet you right where you are. - Keep Going
There will be times when you don’t feel like it or when life gets busy. But don’t stop. Keep seeking Him. The reward is worth it.
Why It’s Worth It
When you seek God, everything changes. He fills your heart with His presence, gives you strength for the challenges you face, and opens doors for you to make an eternal impact.
The simple truth is this: If you seek the Lord, you will find Him. Let that promise be the foundation of your pursuit this year.
So, what’s holding you back? Make the choice today to stop settling for a “just okay” relationship with God. Take that first step, and watch what He does.
This could be the year you draw closer to Him than ever before. Are you ready? Let’s go!
Dr. Jim Van Gelderen is president of Minutemen Ministries, vice-president of Baptist College of Ministry, and evangelist out of Falls Baptist Church. He and his wife, Rhonda, travel the country in evangelism. They have three daughters.
Our words. AI polished. This article was adapted from the author's original content using AI. We’ve used technology to clarify and adapt the message—while keeping the heart and voice the same. All articles are proofread and edited by a human.
