(5:1) Prayer - One way to grow in a close relationship with God is to pray to him earnestly in the morning. In the morning, before our minds become jumbled with problems, we can commit the whole day to God. Regular communication helps any relationship, and it certainly builds a stronger relationship with God. So talk to God regularly and honestly. Start doing so as soon as you wake up in the morning. He is interested even in our groaning. Do you have a time to pray and read God's Word each day?

(5:5) Being Aware of Sin - God cannot condone or excuse even the smallest sin, therefore, i.e. cannot excuse ourselves for sinning even a little. As we grow spiritually, our sensitivity to sin increases. What is your reaction to sin in your life? Are you insensitive, unconcerned, disappointed, or comfortable? As God makes us aware of sin, we must be intolerant toward it and be willing to change. All believers should strive to be more tolerant of people but less tolerant of the

sin in themselves and others.

(5:7) The Love of God - How do we enter God's presence? If we waited until we were sinless and perfect, we would never go in. God's faithful love opens the door for us. Without his mercy and kindness, we'd be unfit to approach him. Each day, ask him to fill you with joy inwardly and surround you with his love outwardly (5:11-12). Then you will be able to approach him boldly.

(5:10-12) The Lord is Our Shield - When David was in trouble because his enemies were lying about him, he prayed, confident that God's love would not only console him but also defend and shield him. We often make the mistake of thinking of love only in terms of gentleness, but God's love is also strong enough to defeat any enemy