How can we cultivate a deeper awareness of God's nearness in our lives? God’s Nearness Is a Promise, Not a Wish Lamentations 3:57: “You drew near on the day I called on You; You said, ‘Do not fear.’” • Scripture presents nearness as an objective reality initiated by God Himself. • Psalm 145:18 affirms this: “The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call out to Him in truth.” • Hebrews 13:5 echoes the permanence of His presence: “I will never leave you, nor forsake you.” Calling Out: The Trigger for His Nearness • Lamentations highlights a specific moment—“the day I called.” • James 4:8 lays out the same pattern: “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” • Genuine, humble prayer is more than a routine; it is the God-ordained means of experiencing His proximity. Practical emphasis: – Speak honestly, as the psalmists do (Psalm 62:8). – Call on Him immediately, not as a last resort (Psalm 50:15). Practical Steps to Stay Aware of His Presence 1. Scripture Immersion • God speaks through His Word; awareness grows when minds are saturated with it (Psalm 1:2). • Read aloud; hearing reinforces the truth that He is actively addressing you (Romans 10:17). 2. Continuous Conversation • “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) invites God into every task and transition. • Short phrases—“Thank You, Lord”; “Help me, Lord”—keep the heart tuned to Him. 3. Gratitude Logging • Recording daily mercies (Psalm 103:2) trains the mind to notice His hand. • Gratitude displaces forgetfulness and amplifies awareness. 4. Obedient Response • John 14:21 links obedience with manifested presence: “...and I will reveal Myself to him.” • Follow promptings swiftly; each step of obedience heightens sensitivity to His nearness. 5. Fellowship with Believers • Matthew 18:20: “Where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I with them.” • Corporate worship and testimony remind hearts that God is actively present among His people. Battling Fear by Remembering His Voice • God’s first word after drawing near is “Do not fear.” • Isaiah 41:10 repeats the theme: “Do not fear, for I am with you.” • Replace anxious thoughts with rehearsed truth: “The Lord is near” (Philippians 4:5–7). Simple practice: – When fear surfaces, declare aloud Lamentations 3:57. – Visualize the Lord stepping closer, speaking peace. Living Every Day in the Reality of “You Drew Near” • Awareness is cultivated, not manufactured—rooted in God’s prior action. • Daily rhythms that align with His Word, open communication, thankful reflection, prompt obedience, and shared worship keep hearts conscious of the nearness He has already pledged. |
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