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  • 6 days ago
  • 4 min read

"Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." — James 4:8 (NLT)


One of the questions I hear most often from my yoga students is:

"How can I feel closer to God?"


The beautiful truth is that God isn't hiding from us. He's continually inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him. Just like any meaningful relationship, our connection with God grows through spending intentional time together.


Over the years, I've discovered a few simple practices that have transformed my walk with Christ. These aren't complicated or time-consuming—they're habits that help keep my heart focused on Him throughout the day.



1. Start Each Day in God's Word

Before reaching for social media or checking emails, spend a few minutes in Scripture.

One of my favorite tools is the YouVersion Bible App, which offers hundreds of reading plans for every season of life—from anxiety and gratitude to forgiveness, hope, and spiritual growth. Even reading one chapter a day allows God's truth to shape your heart before the world has a chance to influence your thoughts.

As Psalm 119:105 reminds us:

"Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path."

God's Word doesn't just give information—it brings transformation.


2. Fill Your Day with Worship Music

Music has an incredible way of redirecting our thoughts toward God.

Whether I'm driving to teach a class, walking on the beach, cleaning the house, or simply enjoying a quiet morning, worship music keeps my heart centered on Christ.

I've created playlists that encourage my faith and bring peace throughout the day. If you're looking for uplifting Christian music, follow my Spotify playlists and worship along with me.

Sometimes worship is simply allowing truth to wash over your heart through song.


3. Listen to Biblical Teaching Throughout Your Day

One of the easiest ways to grow spiritually is to redeem the "in-between" moments.

While walking, exercising, driving, or doing household chores, I often listen to sermons and Bible teachings instead of the news or endless scrolling.


Two teachers I consistently recommend are:

  • Tim Keller – His thoughtful, Scripture-centered messages help connect the gospel to everyday life with wisdom and grace.

  • Lisa Harper – Her authentic storytelling and deep love for God's Word make biblical truth approachable and encouraging.


Even twenty minutes a day can strengthen your understanding of Scripture and deepen your relationship with Christ.

As Romans 10:17 tells us:

"Faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ."

4. Pray Throughout the Day

Prayer doesn't have to be formal or reserved for Sunday mornings.

Talk with God while walking.

Pray while sitting in traffic.

Thank Him while washing dishes.

Invite Him into your workday.

Ask for wisdom before difficult conversations.

Offer gratitude for the small blessings you notice.

Paul encourages us in 1 Thessalonians 5:17:

"Never stop praying."

Prayer isn't about finding perfect words—it's about developing an ongoing conversation with your Heavenly Father.


Group yoga class on an oceanfront deck, participants stretching arms overhead on colorful mats in a calm, sunny setting
Twisted Sister Yoga at the Beach

5. Move Your Body While Centering Your Heart on Christ

Our bodies are gifts from God, and movement can become an act of worship.

In my Christian yoga classes, we intentionally combine gentle movement, breath, Scripture, and prayer to help quiet distractions and create space to listen for God's voice.

Yoga doesn't replace your relationship with Christ—it becomes another opportunity to worship Him with your whole heart, soul, mind, and strength (Luke 10:27).

Whether we're practicing beach yoga overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, gathering indoors, or joining together for a retreat, our focus remains the same:

To draw closer to Jesus.


6. Step Away on a Christian Yoga Retreat

Sometimes the greatest spiritual growth happens when we intentionally unplug.

Life is busy. Our calendars fill up, our phones constantly buzz, and it's easy to neglect our time with God.

That's why I love hosting Christian yoga retreats.

Retreats give us the opportunity to slow down, spend extended time in prayer and Scripture, build meaningful friendships with other believers, and experience God's creation without the distractions of everyday life.

Whether it's a weekend retreat or an unforgettable international experience, these moments often become spiritual milestones that stay with us long after we return home.


Remember: Relationship Over Routine

None of these practices earn God's love.

We don't read the Bible, pray, worship, or attend classes to make God love us more.

We do them because He already does.

Just as healthy relationships grow through consistent time together, our relationship with God deepens when we intentionally make space for Him.

Start small.

Choose one practice.

Be consistent.

God is faithful to meet those who seek Him.

"Come close to God, and God will come close to you." — James 4:8

Ready to Grow Spiritually?

If you're looking for practical ways to deepen your faith while caring for your mind, body, and spirit, I'd love to walk alongside you.


Join me for a Christian yoga class, beach yoga session, chair yoga class, or one of my Sole to Soul retreats. Together we'll move, pray, study Scripture, and encourage one another as we grow closer to Christ.


May your heart continue to seek Him—and may you discover that He has been pursuing you all along.


Cheryl Lovelace and husband, Brian Gagliana
Cheryl Lovelace and husband, Brian Gagliana

Blessings,

 
 
 

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