In the fast-paced world we live in, intimacy with God can feel like an unreachable goal. Distractions surround us, competing for our time and attention. However, the Bible reminds us that intimacy with God is not only possible—it is something He desires deeply for each of us. Psalm 42:1 expresses it beautifully: “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God.”
Intimacy with God transforms more than just our spiritual lives—it shapes our relationships, decisions, and peace. Spending time in His presence is the foundation of our journey with Him. But how do we cultivate intimacy with God when life feels overwhelming? One effective way is through intentional time with Him, such as a Date Alone With God (DAWG). In this article, which was inspired by the third chapter of the Forge discipleship resource Multiplying Movements, we’ll explore Dates Alone with God, and how daily efforts to seek His presence can revolutionize your personal relationship with Him.
What Does Intimacy with God Look Like?
At its heart, intimacy with God is a close, relational connection—one where knowing about Him is replaced by knowing Him personally. It’s more than rituals or theological study; it’s enjoying His presence in every moment, hearing His voice, and sharing your heart with Him. Psalm 27:8 reminds us, “My heart has heard You say, ‘Come and talk with Me.’ And my heart responds, ‘LORD, I am coming.’”
God desires this kind of relationship. He invites us to come closer, to experience His love fully, and to live in constant fellowship with Him. The best part? This invitation isn’t conditional—it’s available to anyone who will seek Him.
Biblical figures like Moses, Mary, and Enoch lived lives that reflected deep intimacy with God. Moses waited patiently on Mount Sinai, spending days immersed in God’s glory (Exodus 24:15-18). Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet, focusing on His presence instead of the distractions of her household (Luke 10:38-42). And Enoch walked with God for 300 years, establishing a legacy of closeness and faithfulness (Genesis 5:21-24). These examples inspire us to pursue intimacy with God, no matter where we are in life.
Practical Ways to Cultivate Intimacy with God
Fostering intimacy with God requires intentionality. It’s about making Him a priority, even amidst a busy schedule. Here are key ways to deepen your relationship:
- Daily Time in His Word The Bible is God’s love letter to us, filled with His character, promises, and guidance. Reading Scripture devotionally—perhaps starting with the Gospels—is a powerful way to deepen your understanding of Him. Try memorizing verses that resonate with you or journaling how they apply to your life.
- Pray Continuously and Authentically Prayer builds closeness. Be honest with God, freely sharing your fears, joys, and hopes. Philippians 4:6 urges us to pray about everything. Know that God loves to hear your voice, regardless of how “together” your prayers may feel.
- Incorporate Worship and Gratitude Worship isn’t limited to Sundays or music. Spending time expressing gratitude to God for His blessings shifts your focus toward Him. Thank Him for the big and the small—your health, home, family, experiences. Gratitude clears the way for His presence in your life.
A Date Alone With God (DAWG): A Practical Tool for Deep Intimacy
One of the most effective practices for pursuing deeper intimacy with God is setting aside intentional, uninterrupted time for a “Date Alone With God” (DAWG). This is more than a brief devotional—it’s an extended opportunity to connect with God on another level. Think of it like spending quality time with someone you love deeply. A DAWG is a chance to be still, to talk with Him, to study His Word, and to refocus your heart on what truly matters.
Here’s an expanded guide to make your next DAWG successful and fulfilling:
Why Have a DAWG?
In our busy lives, dedicating large blocks of time to God often feels unrealistic. However, much like a meaningful conversation with a close friend or time away with a loved one, a DAWG offers a focused opportunity to foster spiritual intimacy. It slows you down, clears some of the noise, and allows for uninterrupted moments in God’s presence.
When you take time for prayer, worship, study, even adventure all in one sitting, you invite a deeper awareness of God’s voice and a renewal of your soul. Many who practice this regularly find that their DAWG days energize their faith and transform their outlook for weeks to come.
How to Plan a DAWG
- Schedule the Time Life is busy, and open time slots won’t magically appear. You need to carve out time intentionally. Set aside a day, a half-day, or even 2–3 hours of uninterrupted time with God. Put it on your calendar and guard it against interruptions. Early mornings or evenings typically work well, or a whole day.
- Prepare What You’ll Need Gather tools that will help you focus and connect with God. You’ll want your Bible, a journal or notebook for writing, pens or highlighters to mark meaningful passages, and perhaps headphones with worship music. Don’t forget snacks and water—this time should be enjoyable and yummy food is key!
- Plan Your “Agenda” (But Stay Open to God’s Leading) While structure can help guide your time, be flexible enough to let God direct the day. Consider how you might break up your DAWG:
- Begin with praise and worship to prepare your heart.
- Dive into Scripture by reading longer passages or entire books to allow God’s Word to speak directly to you.
- Set aside chunks of time for prayer, pouring out your heart to God and listening for His response.
- Reflect through journaling–what are you learning, hearing, or feeling as you meet with Him?
- End your day with gratitude or a moment of silence to meditate on His presence.
4. Choose the Right Location Find a space where you can focus entirely on God. Whether a quiet corner at home, an outdoor park, or even a private room at church, choose a place that encourages reflection. For some DAWGs, you may fell God leading you to go on a hike or even visit a museum—the key is to let Him lead you and to enjoy the experience with Him.
What to Expect During a DAWG
Many first-timers worry about how to fill several uninterrupted hours. However, intimacy with God grows when you slow down and make space for Him. You may uncover areas to surrender, hear His Spirit confirming a decision, or simply rest in His presence. There’s no “right” way to approach a DAWG—the key is dedicating the time and showing up with an open heart.
Benefits of Regular DAWGs
When you practice DAWGs regularly, you might notice:
- Deeper clarity and guidance: God often speaks most clearly when distractions are removed.
- Renewed joy and peace: Extended time with Him refreshes your spirit amid life’s chaos.
- A stronger prayer life: Extended sessions of honest prayer can grow your connection to God.
- Greater intimacy over time: Like any relationship, more time leads to deeper understanding and love.
The Impact of Intimacy with God
When we seek intimacy with God consistently, we start to notice a shift in our hearts and lives. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us, “Anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” These rewards are transformative—a greater sense of peace, a deeper understanding of His will, and the joy of experiencing His love.
Our intentional time with God pleases Him, provides direction in times of uncertainty, and molds us into the people He has called us to be.
Conclusion
In a world that constantly pulls us away from what matters most, seeking intimacy with God is a decision to prioritize what truly brings life to the soul. Whether it’s a five-minute prayer in the morning or an entire Date Alone with God, these moments strengthen the connection between you and Him.
Accept God’s invitation to come closer today. Plan a DAWG, approach Him in prayer, immerse yourself in His Word, and watch how His presence transforms your heart and life. The greatest gift you can give the world is your intimacy with God!
For more discipleship training material like this, click here to access Multiplying Movements — a 12-part Video or Book Study Ideal for Bible Studies or 1-on-1 Mentoring.
