The Story of Anna

Anna, a 19-year-old undergraduate, felt lost and disconnected from her faith. Growing up in a Christian family, she attended church regularly, but her relationship with Jesus felt superficial. She was what we could call a “churchgoer”. 

She struggled with anxiety, inferiority complex, and peer pressure. 

One day, at a NIFES national conference, Anna heard the preacher speak so much on how the Holy Spirit always directed him in his daily tasks and even in the minutest things. She was amazed how that God can talk to you about anything. Since that day, she desired such a relationship with Jesus. 

She looked forward to the moment when she too could say, “Oh, the Holy Spirit spoke to me on this and that…”

Anna began to seek a genuine connection with Jesus.

Starting Your Journey

Like Anna, many young people struggle to establish a meaningful relationship with Jesus. Here are practical steps to help you build a connection with Jesus:

1. Acknowledge Your Need

Recognize your spiritual hunger and desire for a deeper connection.

2. Read the Bible

You cannot know God if you neglect His word. His thoughts, will, and desires are contained in the scriptures. The Bible is the only document we have to know God.

3. Pray Honestly and Listen Attentively 

Share your thoughts, emotions, and struggles with Jesus. Talk to Him about your day. Have a conversation with Jesus when you pray. 

There is nothing too insignificant not to talk about. Share with Him how you feel and most importantly, learn to wait to get feedback.

Don’t just ask and rush out of His presence, also wait to hear what He has to say.

4. Seek Community

Join a church, Bible study, or small group for support and guidance. Fellowshipping with other saints helps us grow in our relationship with Jesus.

Jesus did not save you to be independent, He has given you brethren as a family to grow together.

You alone cannot be the Body of Christ. So, you need others to help you build a connection with Jesus.

5. Practice Surrender

Yield your life to Jesus, trusting in His love and sovereignty.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding, in all your ways, acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:4-4

6. Cultivate Gratitude

Reflect on God's blessings and goodness. 

Learn to say “thank you, Jesus” always. It helps your consciousness. It helps you to be conscious of Jesus’ presence. 

7. Listen to His Voice

Pay attention to the Holy Spirit's gentle whispers. 

You have God’s Spirit in you (1 Corinthians 6:17) and God always speaks, not in the way you might expect. He speaks through your spirit and sometimes, you might think it is your mind. 

So, you must learn to distinguish God’s voice from your mind. One key thing to note is that God’s voice will never contradict His word that’s why studying the scriptures is a must for you.

Deepening Your Relationship

- Schedule regular quiet time with Jesus.

- Explore different prayer styles (journaling, meditation, worship).

- Serve and fellowship with others.

- Forgive and release burdens.

Transformed Lives

As Anna nurtured her relationship with Jesus, she experienced:

- Peace amidst anxiety

- Confidence in her identity

- Courage to share her faith

Your journey with Jesus can be similarly transformative.

Reflection Questions

1. What barriers prevent me from connecting with Jesus?

2. How can I prioritize my relationship with Him?

Prayer

"Jesus, I desire a genuine relationship with You. Show me Your love, guide me in Your truth, and transform my life."