Getting Close With God

A phrase that has governed my spiritual life is "I am as close to God as I choose to be." See, we can easily allow life's good and bad to distract us from spending time with God. Thus, we need a strategy for drawing close to Him. Scripture promises the blessing of His presence when we do so, as taught in James 4:8, which says, "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."

‌Here are a few proven practices for getting close to God:

‌First, be intentional about your relationship with God by managing the clock wisely. Psalm 90:12, "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Putting Bible reading, prayer, Bible classes, and church attendance into the "Subject to Availability" category will not produce spiritual growth. Instead, you must set aside time for daily devotions and commit to serving at your church. Your wise use of your time will yield blessings across the board.

‌Secondly, seek God with humility. Regrettably, many inaccurate versions of Christianity condition people to be loud and proud in their pursuit of God, but that is not the path we need to be on! Eventually, this type of theology leads to arrogance, legalism, a judgmental attitude, and an unhealthy self-reliance. Proverbs 3:34 says, "He has no use for conceited people, but shows favor to those who are humble." And James 4:6 tells us, "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble."

‌Finally, ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart daily. Psalm 139:23-24 says, "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way."

‌Sinful pursuits provide the perfect soil for distractions to grow so big that they obstruct your view of God and your need to fellowship with Him. As you come before God, implement these verses into your prayer time. Allow the Lord to examine your heart.

‌Remember, you are as close to God as you choose to be!