Scripture:
“Come near to God and He will come near to you.” – James 4:8

Falling in love is easy.
It’s the butterflies, the late-night talks, the feeling that you’re finally seen and known.

But staying in love?
That takes time. Intention. Showing up even when it’s not convenient or exciting.
Turns out, a relationship with God is kind of the same.

The Honeymoon Phase of Faith

When I first gave my life to Jesus, everything felt new.
Every worship song brought me to tears.
Every sermon felt like it was written just for me.
I was texting friends verses like they were love notes.

It was the honeymoon phase.
And like any relationship, that season was beautiful—but it wasn’t meant to last forever in that form.

Eventually, real life settled back in.
Work got busy. Distractions multiplied. The butterflies faded.

And that’s when I had to learn what love really looks like—not just in emotion, but in commitment.

When the Sparks Dim, Stay Close

A strong relationship isn’t about constant fireworks.
It’s built on the decision to keep choosing someone—even when you’re tired, distracted, or unsure.

That’s how it is with God, too.

• Some days, we feel Him so close it’s like He’s sitting right beside us.

• Other days, we pray and it feels like silence.

But just like in any healthy relationship, silence doesn’t mean absence.
Distance doesn’t mean disinterest.
It just means we’re invited to draw closer, to be honest, to press in.

Everyday Ways I “Date” God

Sounds funny, I know. But hear me out.
In the same way you prioritize date nights, check-ins, and thoughtful gestures with someone you love…
there are small ways I keep my relationship with God alive and growing:

• I talk to Him throughout the day—like I would with someone I’m close to.
  Quick prayers. Honest venting. Gratitude when the little things go right.

• I set time aside, even if it's just 10 minutes.
  Not because I “have to,” but because I want to be with Him.

• I remember the things He’s done.
  Just like looking back at sweet memories with a loved one, I reflect on prayers He’s answered and how He’s been faithful.

• I wear reminders.
  A cross necklace. A Jesus T-shirt. Something subtle, but intentional—like wearing your heart on your sleeve.

Love That Grows Up

Romantic love matures when we stop chasing a feeling and start choosing a person.
Faith grows the same way.

It’s not always about emotional highs.
Sometimes it’s about doing the dishes while worship plays in the background.
Or choosing grace in a hard conversation.
Or saying, “God, I don’t feel it today… but I still trust You.”

Because here’s the truth: God doesn’t get bored of us.
He doesn’t move on when we’re distant.
He stays. He waits. He pursues.

The Greatest Love Story

A relationship with God isn’t built in a single moment—it’s built over a lifetime.
And it’s not a love story filled with perfect days, but it is filled with perfect love.

So if things feel quiet right now… or distant…
don’t give up.
Lean in. Reconnect. Remember your first love.

He’s still here.
He’s still choosing you.

Every day.