Here’s how I got closer to God…

When I first started on my journey to get closer to God, I realized that creating a welcoming and inspiring space for my quiet time made a huge difference. You know how sometimes just seeing something beautiful makes you want to engage with it more? That's exactly how I felt about my Bible! I love my pink Bible with its floral embossing; it's honestly part of my personal 'Bible aesthetic' that makes daily devotion feel like a treat, not a chore. Having those tabbed sections helps so much too, making it easy to jump to my favorite verses or specific books. One of the books that truly resonated with me, especially when I was looking for practical ways to live out my faith, was the Book of James. It's often called the 'Proverbs of the New Testament' because it's packed with straightforward wisdom on how to actually do what the Bible says, not just hear it. If you're wondering how to take those first steps, James is an incredible guide. For example, remember how I mentioned using a a Bible app for daily verses and prayers? James chapter 1 talks extensively about being a 'doer of the word, and not a hearer only.' Reading a verse from an app is a great start, but James pushes us to ask: 'How can I apply this today?' That's where journaling comes in! I love writing down my reflections and prayers in a notebook, sometimes even directly copying key verses from James that speak to me. Another huge step for me was going to God with my problems first, instead of others. James 1:5 perfectly captures this: 'If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.' This verse changed my whole approach to challenges. Instead of spiraling or running to friends for advice immediately, I learned to pause, take a breath, and pour out my heart to God first. It's a powerful shift! And of course, praying daily, out loud, before bed, in the morning – this is woven throughout the entire book of James. He talks about the 'prayer of a righteous person being powerful and effective' (James 5:16). It's not about being perfect, but about consistently bringing your heart to God. Sometimes, just having my beautiful Bible open, even if it's just to a passage in James, helps me focus my prayers and gratitude. Even listening to gospel music everyday, especially in the mornings, ties into preparing your heart to receive the Word, which James emphasizes. It sets a joyful tone for the day and reminds me of God's presence. So, if you're looking to deepen your walk with God, I highly recommend exploring the Book of James alongside creating an inviting space for your study. It doesn't have to be a pink Holy Bible with floral embossing like mine, but making your Bible study personal and enjoyable can truly transform your spiritual journey. It’s about making your faith life beautiful, inside and out. It has made me feel so much more stable and secure within myself, and I truly believe it can do the same for you!