You're never too old to grow a deep relationship with God. Living in assisted living communities under the Bethesda Senior Living Community umbrella surrounds you in a faith-based environment, which can support your developing relationship. These additional activities can help you grow to know God even more intimately as you age.
Perhaps one of the best ways to know God better is by reading the Bible. Instead of just reading passages in the Bible, dig deeper by studying the word. Set aside time each morning to read a passage and reflect on how it applies to your life. Journaling about what you read can help you better understand it. You might also use a devotional program or join a Bible study group to guide your study of God's word. With continued Bible study, you're constantly seeking the word of God. You're learning about his commandments and how you can live in alignment with God's will.
Incorporating daily prayer into your routine helps you focus your priority on your relationship with God. It gives you a direct connection with God, allowing you to talk to him and spend time with him. You can also pray over the things in your life to receive guidance from God. Following this guidance allows you to put your faith in God and see the results of having a strong relationship with him. If you're not sure how to pray, start by finding prayers online or praying scripture. You can also simply talk to God in a way that feels right to you.
It's normal to feel the burdens of life at all ages. As you get older, you might carry even more burdens. Perhaps you're worried about the decisions your adult children are making or dealing with health or financial issues. You might be worried about what other people think of you or feel like you have to keep up with other senior friends when it comes to things like traveling or spoiling your grandchildren.
Whatever your burdens are, they can keep you from having a close relationship with God. Shedding the burdens of living up to others' expectations helps you focus on obeying God. Giving him your worries about things like your health or your loved ones' decisions can relieve your anxiety and help you reconnect with God.
The Bible is a key part of developing your relationship with God, but other Christian materials can also help you feel closer and strengthen your faith. Look for Christian books when you're at the library or bookstore. They can help deepen your understanding of the Bible and Christianity. Listening to faith-based podcasts can also help you dive deeper into Christian topics. Podcasts offer an easy format to consume, and listening to them regularly keeps your relationship with God at the top of your mind.
You don't have to reach a certain level of faith to start sharing it with other people. No matter where you are in your journey, share what you know, feel and experience related to your relationship with God. You can do this by sharing stories with others or inviting them to join you for church services. Praying with others or offering to pray on their behalf is another way to share your faith.
Wherever you are in your walk with God, being surrounded by other people with strong faith can give you support. Living in a faith-based senior living community is a natural option if your relationship with God is a priority. Your neighbors will likely also be people of faith, and you have access to many faith-based opportunities, such as Bible study groups and on-site worship. Beyond your community, look for friends who prioritize God in their lives. People who already have a very deep relationship with God can serve as mentors for you as you grow closer to him.
Helping others is an easy way to live your life more like Christ. You often hear Christians talking about "love thy neighbor." You can do this in many practical ways, such as praying for others, listening to them when they need a friend and supporting them when they're going through something difficult.
Serving others like Jesus doesn't have to be difficult. Start by thinking of others before yourself. Perhaps your neighbor needs help getting groceries, or you could hold the door for a mom who has her hands full. You can also do things like volunteering regularly in your community.
If you don't have a regular church home, consider finding one in your area. Gathering with others to worship can help you truly feel the spirit and strengthen your relationship with God. Weekly sermons often present relevant topics and help you connect them to your life. They can give you things to reflect upon throughout the week.
Getting involved in the church surrounds you with others who have a strong faith. You can build relationships with fellow congregation members that allow you to socialize and discuss your faith. Volunteering within the church or joining different church groups gives you more opportunities to deepen your relationship with God.
