The first step is for us realize that any loss in
intimacy is a result of our own actions. God is always faithful and never
leaves. He only desires a deeper and more intimate relationship with is and
constantly works toward that end. We on the hand, tend to become distracted or
lazy.
Now when we admit that the problem lies with us we need
to do more than just acknowledging this. The next step is to ask for forgiveness
and this must come from a truly repentant heart/mind. A repentant heart must
lead to a change in actions. Note that it has to start with a heart change.
Anyone can just ‘go through the motions’ and those actions are without any
passion and will come across as cold and religious. God is concerned about a relationship
with us not our religious actions.
A key to this process is not to focus on our areas of
failure and weakness, instead, focus on how you can include God in every aspect
of life especially those things you are most passionate about. Let’s engage our
mind (the seat of passion and intimacy) and become creative in how we can
include God in our daily movements. As newlyweds look for every excuse to spend
as much time with each other as possible so that they can discover new ways to
let their love show. These range from elaborately romantic endeavors that take
much planning and effort, to sharing simple tasks like folding laundry or doing
dishes together. Keeping communication flowing is so important. Two people can
stand beside each other for years working on the same project and never know
each other. Yet if they talk, about the project, about life at home, about
family and friends, joys and sorrows, dreams and hopes…then and only then do
they develop compassion, friendship and intimacy. The same is even truer as we
live with God. He wants and hopes we will be totally honest and open sharing
all of who we are with Him talking about everything. That is why Jesus says the
greatest command in Scripture is “Love
the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your
mind and with all your strength.” (Mark 12:13)
Realize this will take work and sacrifice and a lot of it
over time. However, the end result is so worth it as we draw closer and closer and
enjoy intimacy with God. Also need to remember, as with everything God asks us
to do, if we need help doing and or all of this all we have to do is ask and He
will freely help without finding fault. So do you want to regain intimacy with
God or want deeper intimacy with Him then admit your responsibility, change
your heart and work hard at including God in everything asking for help when
needed. When we do this we will enjoy an intimacy with God like we have never
had before.
