Depend on the Nearness of God

Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened at all, that it cannot save, nor His ear dull with deafness, that it cannot hear.

─ Isaiah 59:1 AMPC

Meister Eckhart, a German theologian and philosopher born circa 1260, near Gotha, in what is now central Germany said, “I am as sure as I live that nothing is so near to me as God. God is nearer to me than I am to myself; my existence depends on the nearness and the presence of God.”

God is as close to us as the very air we breathe, but sadly, like the air, we can sometimes forget just how close He really is. He waits patiently for us to acknowledge His presence, to desire a relationship with Him and depend on Him for our very existence. Isaiah 59:1 reminds us of God’s closeness. “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened at all, that it cannot save, nor His ear dull with deafness, that it cannot hear.”

When have you suddenly recognized God’s presence … perhaps He gently brushed against you like the swirling summer breeze, caressed your cheek, as a loved one does, dropped a secret into your heart or gently tucked you into bed as a parent would after a long day. It’s important that we depend intently on the nearness of God and recognize Him.

Today’s One Thing

Think about the last time you felt the nearness of God. Each morning for the next week or so, set aside time to wait on God. Here’s some ideas in ways you can invite Him near.

• Sit quietly with your palms up in surrender and prayer.
• As you read your Bible, take a highlighter and mark the words that stand out to you, as God speaks to you.

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