How close do you want to get to God?
How close do you want to get to God? It’s a question worth asking because it’s easy to see how many people keep Him at arm’s length. They acknowledge Him but don’t fully embrace the relationship He offers. God has invited us into a life of fullness, yet so many settle for following Him from a distance. Why is that? Why not take hold of the full abundance He offers?
The Bible makes it clear that God desires closeness with His people. James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” This is not just a suggestion; it’s an invitation. God is waiting, but He calls us to take the step toward Him.
One reason people stay distant is fear. They are afraid of what full surrender might require. Yet Jesus tells us in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Surrendering to God doesn’t bring more burden; it brings freedom and peace.
Others keep their distance because of distractions. The world is full of things that pull our attention away from God. In Luke 10:41-42, Jesus said to Martha, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; but only one thing is necessary. For Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” How often do we allow the busyness of life to rob us of the opportunity to sit at the feet of Jesus?
Sometimes the distance is caused by unconfessed sin. Sin separates us from God, not because He moves away, but because we do. Isaiah 59:2 says, “But your wrongdoings have caused a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you so that He does not hear.” Yet God is always ready to forgive and restore. First John 1:9 assures us, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous, so that He will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
The danger of following God from a distance is clear in the life of Peter. In Luke 22:54-55, we see Peter following Jesus after His arrest, but “at a distance.” He warmed himself by the fire, blending in with those who opposed Jesus. That distance led to denial. How often does spiritual distance lead to compromise in our own lives?
But the beauty of closeness with God is beyond comparison. Psalm 16:11 says, “You will make known to me the way of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; in Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” Jesus reminds us of His purpose in John 10:10, saying, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly.” This abundant life is not about worldly gain or temporary satisfaction; it is about a life deeply rooted in His love, presence, and the eternal joy only He can provide.
So I ask again, how close do you want to get to God? The answer to that question shapes everything. Don’t settle for following Him from a distance. Step closer, surrender fully, and take hold of the abundant life He is offering you.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
“What I write is not for everyone, but what I write is meant for someone.”
I am the author of two books: Embracing God's Wisdom: A Journey of Faith and Reflection and Embracing God’s Wisdom: Paul’s Commands for Victorious Living. Both are available on Amazon.
If you have any comments, questions, or testimonies to share, I would love to hear from you! Please reach out at: hopeinchrist2024@yahoo.com