Best 10 Ways to Utilize Your Commute to Grow Closer to God
Introduction
Every day, millions of people spend hours commuting to work, school, or other destinations. While commuting can feel like lost time, it can actually become a powerful opportunity to grow spiritually. Instead of mindlessly scrolling through your phone or feeling frustrated in traffic, you can use your commute to draw closer to God.
Here are 10 powerful ways to turn your commute into a time of spiritual growth.
1. Start with Prayer
Key Verse:
“Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Prayer is one of the best ways to stay connected to God. Your commute provides an excellent opportunity to bring your worries, plans, and praises before Him.
How to Do It:
- Begin your commute with a simple prayer of gratitude.
- Pray for your work, family, and challenges ahead.
- Use prayer apps or prayer lists to stay focused.
When you dedicate your commute to prayer, you set the tone for your entire day.
2. Listen to the Bible
Key Verse:
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
If you have a long commute, use that time to listen to God’s Word. Audio Bibles allow you to absorb Scripture without distractions.
How to Do It:
- Download a Bible app like YouVersion or Dwell.
- Choose a Bible reading plan to follow.
- Meditate on key verses throughout the day.
By listening to the Bible daily, you fill your mind with truth and wisdom.
3. Worship Through Music
Key Verse:
“Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:19)
Worship music is a powerful way to shift your focus from your problems to God’s greatness.
How to Do It:
- Create a playlist of worship songs.
- Sing along and let the lyrics minister to you.
- Use instrumental worship music for quiet reflection.
A heart that worships remains connected to God throughout the day.
4. Reflect on a Devotional
Key Verse:
“I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways.” (Psalm 119:15)
A short devotional can give you spiritual nourishment before your day even begins.
How to Do It:
- Listen to a daily devotional podcast.
- Read a short devotional before you start driving.
- Choose devotionals focused on faith, peace, or wisdom.
Starting your day with biblical encouragement helps you stay focused on God.
5. Speak Affirmations of Faith
Key Verse:
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” (Proverbs 18:21)
The words we speak shape our thoughts and attitudes. Instead of complaining about traffic, speak life-giving words over yourself.
How to Do It:
- Declare God’s promises over your life (e.g., “I am loved by God. I walk in His peace.”).
- Reject negative thoughts and replace them with faith-filled affirmations.
- Use Bible verses as daily affirmations.
Speaking words of faith strengthens your spirit and prepares you for the day ahead.
6. Practice Gratitude
Key Verse:
“Give thanks in all circumstances.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
A grateful heart attracts God’s presence. Instead of feeling frustrated with traffic, choose to focus on God’s goodness.
How to Do It:
- List five things you’re grateful for every morning.
- Thank God for both big and small blessings.
- Shift your focus from stress to contentment.
Gratitude turns any moment— even a stressful commute— into worship.
7. Memorize Scripture
Key Verse:
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11)
Memorizing Scripture helps you fight temptation, strengthen your faith, and renew your mind.
How to Do It:
- Choose one verse per week to memorize.
- Repeat it aloud while driving or commuting.
- Use Scripture cards or Bible apps to help.
Over time, God’s Word becomes deeply rooted in your heart.
8. Listen to a Christian Podcast or Sermon
Key Verse:
“Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Romans 10:17)
A great way to grow spiritually is by listening to Bible-centered teaching during your commute.
How to Do It:
- Find Christian podcasts that encourage spiritual growth.
- Listen to sermons from trusted pastors and teachers.
- Take notes (mentally or on your phone later) to apply the lessons.
This keeps your mind focused on eternal truths instead of distractions.
9. Pray for Others
Key Verse:
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
Use your commute as a time to intercede for others. Praying for people deepens your relationship with God and aligns your heart with His.
How to Do It:
- Make a prayer list for friends, family, and coworkers.
- Pray for the salvation of loved ones.
- Ask God to bless and guide those around you.
Prayer shifts your focus from yourself to God’s bigger plan.
10. Meditate on God’s Presence
Key Verse:
“Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
Sometimes, the best way to connect with God is to simply rest in His presence.
How to Do It:
- Take a deep breath and acknowledge God’s nearness.
- Focus on His love, peace, and guidance.
- Let go of stress and trust in His control.
Practicing stillness allows God to refresh your soul before your day begins.
Conclusion
Your commute doesn’t have to be wasted time—it can be a sacred time to grow closer to God. Whether you choose to pray, worship, listen to Scripture, or reflect on a devotional, every moment spent with God transforms your life.
