The word “often” means regularly; a lot. Jesus spent a lot of time alone with God. Why? Jesus needed to stay connected to the Father in order to be refreshed and recharged after the pressures of ministry. Knowing His ultimate purpose on earth was to go to the cross for our sins, Jesus also needed strength to continue walking in God’s will.

Even though our most intense pressures and stress pale in comparison to what Jesus faced on the cross, we too need God’s refreshment, strength and encouragement in the face of life’s daily demands and anxiety. So how do we spend time with God? Where do we start?

1. Remove Distractions – Silence your cell phone, close your laptop, turn off the TV – and ask God for a desire to know Him.
2. Be Vulnerable – Pray and pour out your heart to God. Christ teaches that prayer should consist of praising and thanking God for who He is and what He’s done. It includes asking Him to meet our needs and praying for God’s will in our lives and in the lives of others. It means asking God’s forgiveness for our sins and for the strength to face each day. It’s about 100% vulnerability with God.
3. Read God’s Word – God speaks, teaches and encourages us through His Word. If you want to know God, then read His Word. It’s His way of revealing Himself to each of us.
4. Join Others – The Bible speaks about the importance of community with other believers through corporate worship and Bible study. It’s about praising God. It’s asking the tough questions, supporting others and living life together that helps us walk with God.

Jesus spent a lot of time with God the Father in order to be refreshed and recharged – but ultimately, it was because Jesus knew the love of His Father and He wanted to be with Him. The more time you spend with God, the more you will understand the power of God’s love that brings joy, fulfillment and purpose to life. So ask God to help you prioritize time with Him today or this week. And just do it!