You are near, O Lord, And all Your commandments are truth.

Psalms 119:151

One of the most amazing aspects of Christianity is that we serve a God who is “near” and not a God who is distant and unapproachable.  The word “near” implies closeness, like a relative, friend, or a neighbor who is next to you readily available to you.

The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, To all who call upon Him in truth.

Psalms 145:18

Many of us grew up with the concept that God is there, but not that “God is near.”  Being “there” and being “near” communicates two very different things.   I can be “there” and not have a relational connect with someone.  But when one understand the true meaning of this word “near” you realize that one cannot be “near” without first being “there;” but being “near” is being “there” with a relational connect. 

 “Am I a God near at hand,” says the Lord, “And not a God afar off?

Jeremiah 23:23

As I pondered on the verses that communicated God’s nearness, I discovered that:

• God draws near when we just simply call upon Him
• God draws near when we call upon Him looking for truth
• When God draws near His loving presence alleviates our fears

You drew near on the day I called on You, And said, “Do not fear!”

Lamentations 3:57

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Deuteronomy 31:6

When God draws near, He wants us to be “near” and not just “there.”  God wants us to have a relational connect with Him that goes beyond our need of Him.   When I draw “near” I also discover who He really is and it causes my trust to be made firm and strong. 

Forge ahead today with full assurance in the heart as you draw near to the One who is always there.

But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord God and made Him my refuge, that I may tell of all Your works.

Psalms 73:28