What does it actually mean to have a relationship with God? All relationships need to be defined and that is especially important for your relationship with Jesus Christ. But who gets to decide the level of commitment in your relationship with the one true God? Jesus does.

[0:00] Intro

[0:53] The power of prayer

[5:35] What is “doing good”?

[8:45] Jesus defines the relationship

[18:45] Final thoughts

Bible verses:

Luke 9:23

James 1:22

Philippians 4:9

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Philippians 4:6 memory verse

Philippians 4:7 memory verse

Galatians 6:9 memory verse

Prayer and Doing Good

Sometimes the only and best thing you can do in a crisis is to pray.

The importance of prayer is not in accomplishing a certain outcome. The main significance of prayer is seeking God in all circumstances.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:6-7

Prayer is an act unto God. It is doing “good.” Galatians 6:9 encourages us to not become weary in doing good, as it will lead to a harvest at the proper time and it will always glorify God.

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” - Galatians 6:9

Defining Your Relationship with Jesus

All relationships need to be defined and that is especially important for your relationship with Jesus Christ. But who gets to decide the level of commitment in your relationship with the one true God? Jesus does.

There is a cost of following Jesus. In Luke 9:23, Jesus calls for self-denial, to take up your cross daily, and follow Him. Self-denial means saying no to selfish ambitions and following God's plans, not your own.

You also must be willing to suffer for Christ. In Acts 5, Peter and John are beaten but they rejoice because they were worthy to suffer for Christ's name.

The depth of your relationship with Jesus is more than just believing but involves belonging and loyalty. It is a relationship of discipleship, where you follow and obey Jesus as the leader. Your relationship must stand firm on truth and not be swayed by the world's opinions. As described in James 1:22, you must be doers of the word and not just hearers.

The relationship with Jesus is one where God calls individuals into a relationship, not just into following rules or religion. Jesus calls us into truth.

“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” - Philippians 4:9

Questions to consider:

How can you actively live out your faith and do good works, even when you feel weary?

What are practical ways you can incorporate prayer into your daily life?

How can you deepen your relationship with God and ensure it is one of full commitment and obedience to Jesus Christ?