There's a saying that has been quoted for many years, especially related to romance, as though it were absolutely true: "Absence makes the heart grow fonder." Experience has shown otherwise in many incidents. It is often more true that "absence makes the heart wander." This is true in our relationship with Jesus. If you do not invest time in getting to know Him, you will be growing further away from Him. This is why regular [daily, non-negotiable, significant, and prime] time with Jesus is so important. Remember, you are spending time with Jesus to get to know Him as a friend, not just to put in time!

• Begin each session with prayer--maybe something like this: "Lord, help me to come to know you better as we spend time together..."
  
  
• Read the passage--several times noticing as many details as you can.
  
  
• Imagine the setting--put yourself in the picture. Try to imagine the sounds, smells, sensations.
  
  
• Summarize the passage--in your own words.
  
  
• Apply the passage--what message is God giving you?
  
  
• Meditate and pray--meditate on how this passage makes Jesus more real. Talk to Him about the passage and about using the information you have learned.

Passages for This Week

• John 3:1-21
• John 3:22-36
• John 4:1-26
• John 4:27-38
• John 4:39-42
• John 4:43-54
• John 5:1-15