What Gets In The Way Of Knowing God?

Lord, what are some obstacles to deepening my faith in you?

Do not love this world nor the things it offers you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything you see, and pride in your achievements and possessions. These are not from me, but are from this world. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases me will live forever.

1 John 2:15-17

So how can I avoid these obstacles and live for what will last?

Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. Don’t envy violent people or copy their ways. Such wicked people are detestable to me, but I offer my friendship to the godly. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let me transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know my will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

1 Peter 1:14; Proverbs 3:31-32; Romans 12:2

What can I pray when I encounter barriers to a deeper relationship with you?

LORD, you are a friend to those who fear you. You teach them your covenant. My eyes are always on you, for you rescue me from the traps of my enemies.

Psalm 25:14-15

What cravings or distractions are your biggest obstacles to going deep with God? How might social media affect your desires? Keep a journal today of where your thoughts go after you spend time watching TV or using social media. Are you left craving newer or better things or coveting someone else’s life? Are you distracted from what is good, pure, and true? Review your journal prayerfully at the end of the day.