Step 11: Seeking a Deeper Connection with God

"Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out."

A Year of Reflection

A year ago, I faced a life-altering experience that deepened my understanding of Step 11 in profound ways. I was admitted to the hospital with a viral infection that attacked my kidneys and lungs. My kidneys had shut down, and my body was struggling. In the midst of this, I had a spiritual experience unlike any other.

I saw a great light and met a personage of a man who told me I needed to return—my work was not yet complete. As this happened, passages from the Book of Mormon flashed rapidly through my mind. I also felt a deep connection to the emotions of those around me, as if I was sharing in their very essence. These feelings have never truly left me.

Seeking Christ in Everyday Life

This morning, as I reflected on my experience, I felt compelled to explore the question: What does it mean to truly follow Jesus Christ? To gather insight, I asked an AI assistant, Microsoft Copilot, to help me brainstorm ways to bring Christ more fully into my life. The response offered a roadmap—a guide to deepening my spiritual connection.

Spiritual Practices

• Daily Prayer – Establishing a consistent routine of prayer strengthens our connection with God and invites His guidance.

• Scripture Study – Immersing ourselves in the Word allows us to hear His voice and apply His teachings.

• Journaling – Writing down insights and reflections fosters spiritual growth and mindfulness.

Living His Teachings

• Service to Others – Acts of kindness and charity are powerful ways to embody Christ’s love.

• Forgiveness and Compassion – Just as He forgives us, we must extend grace to ourselves and others.

• Faith in Action – Living by example, sharing His message through kindness and testimony.

Community and Worship

• Church Involvement – Building faith alongside others provides support and strengthens our commitment.

• Sacrament Meetings – Reflecting on Christ’s atonement renews our faith and focus.

Surrounding Ourselves with Christ-Centered Resources

• Inspirational Media – Uplifting books, music, and messages reinforce our faith.

• Daily Quotes and Scripture – Meditating on spiritual wisdom keeps us centered.

A Scriptural Map for the Journey

As I pondered these ideas, I realized they aligned with a natural progression of faith, illustrated beautifully through scripture:

1. John 14:6 – Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

   • This is the foundation—accepting Christ as our guide.

2. Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

   • Learning to trust in His plan rather than our own.

3. Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

   • Embracing hope and divine purpose in our journey.

4. Psalm 23 – The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.

   • Finding peace and rest in His care.

5. Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

   • Accepting His invitation for renewal and healing.

6. Romans 12:2 – Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

   • Allowing Christ to transform our thoughts and actions.

7. Philippians 4:6-7 – Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

   • Releasing anxiety through prayer and trust.

8. Hebrews 12:1-2 – Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus.

   • Staying steadfast, keeping Christ at the center.

This journey—one of trust, transformation, and perseverance—is a continuous path. Each scripture serves as a guidepost, leading us deeper into faith.

I encourage you to reflect on these scriptures in your own life. Which resonate with you? How can you apply them in your daily walk with Christ?

Let’s seek Him together, through prayer, meditation, and the quiet moments where His voice speaks to our hearts.