HOW TO HAVE UNION WITH GOD

God has His hand in everything you do. You can learn to discern His direction by cultivating spiritual practices that help you listen to God. Each practice is meant to be a means to an end, not an end in themselves. Don't get so caught up in the discipline that you miss a deeper relationship with Jesus. All disciplines do not have to be used at all times; in fact, may only be appropriate for certain seasons of your life.

Daily prayer. Jesus is the best role model in daily prayer. He prayed in ecstasy during the Transfiguration, in agony in the Garden, and at every time in between.

Communion. Holy communion is the center of faith. It is the spiritual food of life.

Scripture study. When you read the Bible daily, the powerful words become etched in your deepest being. Without even thinking, you begin to make decisions through the invisible filter of Scripture.

Confession. Regular review of your thoughts and conduct are important if you are seeking the Kingdom of God. Sin is sometimes so ingrained in daily life that you don't recognize it until you begin a consistent, honest evaluation process.

Entertainment. How you choose to spend your time will dictate how deeply you can journey inward. Examine what you read, how many hours a week you watch TV, or participate in sports. Do your free-time activities draw you closer or further from God?

Journaling. Our lives are a part of the story of God. It didn't end when scripture writers stopped their writing. Your journal can be a record of dreams, meditations, prayer requests, thoughts, Bible verses, inspirational quotes, struggles, and any other life experiences. You can structure entries as letters to Jesus.

Retreats. Just as Jesus went away to be alone, retreats can give you time to re-examine your relationship with God and others. The busier you are, the more apt you are to need a retreat. If you can't get away for a week, or weekend, regularly schedule an hour of intense reflection.

Meditation. Make and take the time to think through God's word thoroughly and presence in your life. In Christian meditation, the goal is unity with the Living God.

Spiritual companions. Coming together with other Christians can deepen your friendship and your love for the Lord. Christian friendship can help you keep your feet on the path that leads to unity with God.

Fasting. There is something truly mystical that happens when you allow your body to be hungry. As a place in your life becomes empty, God can enter and fill it.

Stewardship. You can gain valuable insights into your spiritual progress when you can let money come and go, trusting that God will always take care of you.

Service. Ultimately, a spiritual journey should bring you to service and social action. God's desire is for you to show love to others in an unselfish way.

Listening. Whatever practice you use, listening for God's response should be a priority. Take the time to be still before God.

Susan Shannon Davies, a freelance writer, is a regular contributor to Money Sense and No-Debt Living, publications devoted to sharing faith-based principles and Christian perspective on financial management. She lives in Boise, Idaho, with her husband and four daughters.

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