Deepening Faith Outside Church: Simple Habits That Grow Your Relationship With Jesus
Can I tell you something honest? Deepening faith outside church is something a lot of us want, but we’re not always sure where to start. We get the Sunday routine, but Monday morning? That’s usually when it feels like the world comes rushing in. It’s not just about going to a service, it’s about moving from ritual to faith in your everyday life. It’s about knowing Jesus in a real, living way. So let’s talk about what this looks like, not just for those “super Christians” we imagine, but for us - for real people with jobs, families, and the daily grind.
I remember seasons where church felt like one of the boxes I checked. (Hand raised on Sunday, songs sung, prayers said.) But then I’d walk out those doors and wonder - is my faith moving with me? Or did it stay behind, waiting for next week? I know that’s not just my story, especially for those walking through spiritual rebuilding after setbacks. A lot of you have felt the same. And let’s be honest: deepening faith outside church isn’t something that happens by accident. It takes intention. It’s a decision I make every day, and it’s not always easy, but learning to obey God in daily life is always worth it.
What Does Deepening Faith Outside Church Really Look Like?
Maybe you hear the phrase “relationship with Jesus” and think it sounds vague. I get it. But here’s the thing: deepening faith outside church is way more about daily connection than anything fancy or complicated. It’s real conversations with God, not just reciting prayers. It’s opening your Bible even if you only have five minutes, or hearing God's voice daily when you want to do things your way. It’s knowing that faith isn’t a checklist - it’s a heart thing. And it’s our daily, living response to a God who wants to know us, not just be studied from afar.
Let me say it plain. You don’t have to be a spiritual superstar, especially if you’re healing from spiritual perfectionism and learning to walk in grace. You don’t have to get it all right. But if you want deepening faith outside church, you have to start somewhere, even when you’re dealing with doubt as Christian. The simple stuff matters, especially when we practice spiritual self care habits that sustain us all week long. And it’s often the small, quiet choices that grow that deep faith we long for.
Why Sunday Isn’t Enough For A Real Relationship With Jesus
How many of you have ever left church feeling fired up, but by Wednesday, your spiritual fire is a flicker? I’ve been there. Our recent podcast episode was on moving from knowing about Jesus to truly knowing Him. And in those moments, the Holy Spirit nudged me - this isn’t about Sunday attendance, it’s about being with Jesus in my everyday life. I want you to hear this: faith lived once a week isn’t enough for the life you were created for. Real growth happens in the Monday-through-Saturday places, especially when we’re finding God in hard times.
The truth is, deepening faith outside church is how we see God’s heart for us in every part of life - at home, at work, in quiet moments, and in chaos. Jesus never said, "Just see me at the temple." He met people where they were - fishing boats, dinner tables, dusty roads. That’s still His heart for you and me. To walk with us right where we are.
What Makes Everyday Faith Possible?
(Let’s get practical here.)
- Talk to God like a friend (short prayers all day, not just at meals or bedtime)
- Find a Bible plan or app that fits your routine (even 1-2 verses help)
- Swap out a podcast or playlist once a week for worship or Scripture
- Keep a gratitude journal for things God is doing (small or big)
- Ask, “Lord, what do you want for me today?” and actually listen
How To Build Habits For Deepening Faith Outside Church
Let me tell you, it’s not about longer prayers or more church programs. The habits that help most are the ones that point me back to Jesus again and again, even when it’s hard. Some days that looks like two minutes with a devotional app. Some days, it’s choosing to forgive, or saying “no” to something that pulls me away from what God wants for me. Deepening faith outside church is choosing to keep the conversation with God open, not just hit ‘pause’ until Sunday comes around again.
These are the questions I ask myself: Who or what shapes my thoughts outside those church walls? Where do I invest my emotional energy? When I need advice, do I go to God first, or do I ask everyone else? I don't have all the answers, but these questions point me back to Jesus, and that’s how faith grows.
Simple Ways To Keep Jesus At The Center Every Day
Want some quick ideas for deepening faith outside church?
- Pick one verse each week and put it where you’ll see it every day (mirror, fridge, phone)
- Set a timer (just five minutes) to pause and pray mid-day
- Share what you’re learning with a friend or your family (out loud)
- Turn off distractions for a few minutes to be still and listen
- Celebrate progress, not perfection. Small steps count, friend
Remember, faith is not a competition. You don’t have to do it all. Ask God what’s your next step, and start there. He honors simple obedience.
Scripture for Deepening Faith Outside Church
Let’s put God’s Word in the heart of this. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6, CSB) He didn’t call us to busy faith. He called us to Himself. That promise is for us, not just in church services, but in the middle of our every day.
The Bible isn’t just a book on a shelf - it’s alive. And the more I read it, even when I don’t understand every line, the more I see God meeting me right where I am. That’s what I want for you, too. Deepening faith outside church grows when we keep going back to His promises and sit with them honestly.
What If I Don’t Feel Close To Jesus Right Now?
Does this sound familiar? You’ve tried reading, praying, doing “the right things” but it still feels out of reach. Friend, you are not alone. I have had those dry spells, too. Sometimes it’s not about adding more spiritual stuff. It’s about being honest with God. Telling Him you’re struggling. Letting Him in. He isn’t waiting for you to impress Him - He wants to walk with you in the real, imperfect moments.
Start with where you are. One conversation, one verse, one prayer at a time. Deepening faith outside church is a daily decision, not a feeling. Don’t give up. He’s right here, waiting, just as you are.
Encouragement For The Week Ahead
Let me remind you, every step matters. One prayer changes things. One honest moment opens the door for God to meet you. Don’t let shame over “missing it” keep you silent. Today can be a fresh start. God’s mercy is new every morning - and yes, that means today.
Want more real talk about faith and practical steps? Listen to our latest podcast episode on moving from knowing about Jesus to really knowing Him. Let’s walk this out together. Share this post with someone you love, and keep putting those perspectives into practice. I’ll be right here cheering you on, one day at a time.
