Being part of God’s Kingdom and being a child of God is all about relationship. To ‘know' in the bible is far more profound than just being acquainted with someone. It means to know them intimately. Jesus came to earth and modeled to us what it looks like to have an intimate relationship with the Father. He said: “I tell you, the Son can do nothing by Himself; He can do only what He sees His Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does” (John 5:19 NIV).

Jesus was utterly dependent on hearing from the Father and doing what He tells Him to do. Jesus often had to draw away to a quiet place to pray and so should we (Luke 5:16). Prayer is not a religious thing we do just before we eat a meal. Prayer is the continual conversation we have with our Father as we walk through life with Him.

You might be asking “How do I spend time with God?” You can spend time with God anywhere and at any time, because He lives and dwells in you! Talk to Him in your heart about anything big or small. He is very interested in every detail of your life. However, even though He is always with you, it is also important to sometimes find a quiet place and set aside some time to be alone with Him.

But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly (Matthew 6:6 NKJV).

It takes time to work on a new relationship. At first it might seem awkward. When you spend time with God, you also might be easily distracted. Do not worry, before long you will love spending time with your Heavenly Father.

Here are three things you can do during your time with Father.

1. Worship

Begin by putting on some worship music. Worship will also open your heart to God so that you can hear Him more clearly. The Bible says we come into His presence with thanksgiving and praise. Allow the worship to calm your heart and anxious thoughts.

2. Read the Word

When reading the Word don't try and read too much, just read one scripture at a time and sit and think about it again and again. Thinking deeply on scripture or about God is called meditation. This is not the same is Eastern Meditation, which is about emptying your mind. This is about filling your mind with the Word of God. (More about the importance of this later).

3. Journal your prayers

It is also essential to get yourself a journal for this time. Write down any thoughts or questions you may have. Write your prayers and frustrations down. Try to be as real as possible with your Father. See the example below:

Journal entry example: Date: 21 July 2013

Father, thanks for this beautiful day, you have been so good to me. Father, I'm feeling frustrated with not being able to change fast enough, help me overcome my anger problem. Another thing Father, that scripture I read this morning in John 15:5.

What does it mean to remain in you?

Next, write down what you feel God is saying to you:

My child, remain in Me, stay in Me, stick close to Me, and you will bear much fruit. It will be good fruit. You don't have to try to produce good fruit, but if you remain in Me, you will naturally bear fruit. Remain in My love. Know My love, receive My love and feel My love for you.