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The Seriousness of Drawing Close to God

Drawing close to God is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life, emphasizing a relationship that impacts every area of a believer’s existence. James 4:8 commands, “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” This verse underscores both the responsibility and the promise associated with seeking intimacy with God.

The Importance of Spiritual Intimacy

Drawing close to God is vital because it aligns believers with their Creator, offering spiritual strength, guidance, and fulfillment. Psalm 73:28 declares, “But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works.” The psalmist recognizes that proximity to God is not just beneficial but essential for a life of purpose and protection.

God desires a close relationship with His children. This is evident from the beginning of Scripture, where God walked with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:8). His intention has always been to have an intimate, personal relationship with humanity. This desire for intimacy was ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection made it possible for believers to draw near to God without the barrier of sin (Hebrews 10:19-22).

Goals for Taking in Knowledge of God

To draw close to God, Christians must actively seek knowledge of Him through His Word, creation, and the works of the Holy Spirit.

Deepening Understanding of Scripture

One primary goal is to deepen understanding of Scripture. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 states, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” Studying the Bible equips believers with the knowledge needed to grow in their relationship with God and live out their faith effectively.

Regular Bible reading and study plans can help achieve this goal. Psalm 1:2 describes the blessed person as one whose “delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.” Consistent engagement with Scripture helps internalize God’s truths and apply them to daily life.

Understanding God’s Nature Through Creation

Another goal is to understand God’s nature through creation. Romans 1:20 explains, “For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made.” Observing the natural world can lead to a greater appreciation of God’s power, creativity, and providence.

Recognizing the Work of the Holy Spirit

In times of decision-making, the Holy Spirit provides wisdom and direction through the Scriptures. James 1:5 encourages us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” As we pray for wisdom, it is crucial to study God’s Word to discern His will. Just as seeking employment involves actively applying for jobs, seeking God’s guidance involves diligently searching the Scriptures and applying their principles to our decisions.

Demonstrating Genuine Love for God

Genuine love for God is demonstrated through obedience, worship, and love for others. Jesus emphasized the greatest commandments in Matthew 22:37-39: “And he said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'”

Obedience to God’s Commands

Obedience to God’s commands is a clear expression of love for Him. John 14:15 states, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” Obedience involves aligning one’s life with God’s will as revealed in Scripture, demonstrating commitment and reverence for God.

Worship and Adoration

Worship is another way to express love for God. Psalm 95:6 invites, “Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!” Worship involves both personal and corporate expressions of adoration, gratitude, and reverence, acknowledging God’s sovereignty and goodness.

Loving Others

Loving others is integral to demonstrating love for God. 1 John 4:20-21 emphasizes, “If anyone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.” Genuine love for God manifests in compassionate, selfless relationships with others.

Building Greater Intimacy with God in Prayer

Prayer is a powerful means of building intimacy with God, involving communication, thanksgiving, confession, and intercession.

Developing a Consistent Prayer Life

Consistency in prayer is essential. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 encourages believers to “pray without ceasing,” fostering an ongoing conversation with God throughout the day. Setting aside specific times for focused prayer can enhance this practice, as exemplified by Daniel, who prayed three times a day (Daniel 6:10).

Expressing Gratitude and Praise

Expressing gratitude and praise in prayer strengthens intimacy with God. Psalm 100:4 instructs, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!” A heart of gratitude acknowledges God’s blessings and fosters a deeper appreciation of His presence and provision.

Confessing Sins and Seeking Forgiveness

Confession and seeking forgiveness are vital aspects of prayer. 1 John 1:9 assures, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Confession restores fellowship with God and keeps the believer’s heart aligned with His righteousness.

Interceding for Others

Interceding for others demonstrates love and concern, deepening one’s connection with God. James 5:16 encourages, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” Praying for others aligns the believer’s heart with God’s compassionate nature and strengthens communal bonds.

Practical Steps to Draw Close to God

In addition to the goals and practices mentioned, specific steps can help believers draw closer to God.

Regular Devotional Time

Setting aside regular devotional time for Bible reading, meditation, and prayer helps maintain a close relationship with God. Psalm 119:147-148 highlights the psalmist’s dedication: “I rise before dawn and cry for help; I hope in your words. My eyes are awake before the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promise.”

Fasting

Fasting is a spiritual discipline that can enhance focus on God and deepen intimacy. Matthew 6:16-18 provides guidance on fasting: “And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. … But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret.” Fasting helps believers prioritize spiritual over physical needs.

Engaging in Worship

Engaging in both personal and corporate worship fosters a sense of God’s presence and communal connection. Hebrews 10:25 emphasizes the importance of gathering for worship: “Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”

Reflecting on God’s Attributes

Reflecting on God’s attributes—His holiness, love, mercy, and justice—enhances understanding and reverence. Psalm 145:5 declares, “On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.” Contemplating God’s nature fosters awe and intimacy.

Conclusion

Drawing close to God is a multifaceted journey involving intentional study, genuine love, prayer, and practical disciplines. By setting goals for understanding Scripture, demonstrating love through obedience and worship, and cultivating a rich prayer life, believers can deepen their relationship with God and experience His transformative presence. This continuous pursuit reflects a life devoted to knowing and glorifying God.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220 books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).