“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

I believe you’re reading this today for a purpose. God has a plan for you—a plan meant to bring you prosperity and hope for the future, not harm. True peace resides in the presence of Jesus, offering a tranquility that goes beyond human understanding. Perhaps you’ve attended church for many years without experiencing the peace I’m referencing. Maybe you’ve never stepped into a church but feel there’s something more out there. Or you might resonate with my past thoughts, doubting the existence of Jesus, viewing Him as a myth akin to Santa, but without the joy. You may think religion is merely a tool for control, viewing Christians as hypocritical and judgmental, and the Bible as a collection of falsehoods and half-truths. Regardless of your starting point, I’m glad you’re here because God’s word assures us that the truth will liberate you. In the upcoming posts, I will share insights that have helped me grow closer to Jesus, with the hope that they will assist you as they have helped me. These tools are excellent for learning and growth, but first, you need to believe in God’s existence. You don’t need to know Him immediately, but you must be open to that possibility. As His word states, without faith, it is impossible to please God; anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and rewards those who earnestly seek Him. Do you wish to discover the truth? Do you desire freedom? Are you looking for peace? Then take the next step. I will provide some example prayers to guide you. Feel free to use your own words, but ensure your heart is open, even if it’s as simple as saying, “God, please open my heart to You.”

I’m unsure if there is a God and find it hard to believe?

• God, I don’t know if You are real. I struggle with trusting You, but I am here. If You exist, please open my eyes so that I can see and my heart to You. I recognize my heart is hardened towards the things of God, and without Your intervention, I will never come to know You and the peace that surpasses understanding. I will do my part to learn about You, but I need You to soften my heart.

I think God is angry with me?

• God, I am truly sorry for my actions. I want to improve, but I’m unsure if I can. Please help me draw closer to You. Thank You for not giving up on me. I know that through my regrets, I can still be a child of God, as Your word states that You discipline those You love. Your word also tells us that He who began a good work in me will bring it to completion. I know I can’t do this alone and often fall short, but I will strive to learn more about You and choose to grow closer to You every day. Please grant me the strength to persevere and the ability to see myself through Your eyes.

I think I know God, but I lack peace.

• God, I long to know You more deeply; to experience the peace that surpasses understanding. Please help me grow closer to You. Assist me in understanding Your word when I read it, and guide me on how to spend my time. Your word states, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” I will do my part to learn Your commandments and study Your word. I ask that You give me the Holy Spirit to teach me the truth and equip me with the tools I need to grow.

I am angry with God.

• God, I am furious about what has happened. I don’t understand. Please help me find peace in this situation. Your word says Your ways are higher than my ways. Romans 8:28 reminds us that You will work all things together for good for those who love You. I find that difficult to accept, but I will do my part to learn about You and Your word so that I may understand and find peace, as this burden is more than I can bear.