Drawing Near

1. God Passionately Desires Intimacy with You

"For he is a God who is passionate about his relationship with you" (Ex. 34:14 NLT)

Divine Pursuit. God's deepest desire is not just to be known about, but to be intimately known. Unlike human relationships where one party might be hesitant, God is actively and passionately seeking connection with each of His children. His love is not passive or distant, but dynamic and intensely personal.

Unconditional Love. God's pursuit of intimacy is not based on our worthiness, but on His infinite love. Even when we were sinners, He demonstrated His love by sending Jesus. His value of humanity is so profound that He would have sent Jesus if we were the only person on earth.

Invitation to Relationship. The invitation to intimacy is open to everyone, regardless of past mistakes or current circumstances. God's heart cry is consistently, "Draw near to Me, and I will draw near to you." This invitation transcends human limitations and offers a transformative relationship with the Creator of the universe.

2. The Fear of the Lord is the Foundation of Intimacy

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge" (Prov. 1:7)

Misunderstood Concept. The fear of the Lord is not about being scared, but about having profound reverence and respect. It's an attitude of heart that acknowledges God's holiness, wisdom, and supreme authority while maintaining a posture of humble submission.

Protective Mechanism. Holy fear serves as a spiritual guardrail, keeping believers from sin and spiritual compromise. It's not a restrictive force, but a protective one that guides believers away from destructive paths and toward divine wisdom.

Intimacy's Gateway. Genuine intimacy with God is impossible without the fear of the Lord. This reverence creates a heart condition that opens the door to deeper spiritual understanding and close communion with God.

3. Humility Unlocks Divine Communion

"God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6)

Humility's Power. True humility is not self-deprecation, but a realistic understanding of oneself in relationship to God. It involves recognizing God's greatness while understanding our complete dependence on Him.

Spiritual Development. Humility allows for continuous spiritual growth. The most mature believers are those who remain teachable, acknowledging that they always have more to learn about God's nature and ways.

Divine Attraction. God is specifically drawn to humble hearts. When we empty ourselves of pride and self-sufficiency, we create space for God's presence and revelation.

4. The Holy Spirit Yearns to Communicate Deeply

"The Spirit of God has made me" (Job 33:4)

Personal Companion. The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force, but a deeply relational person of the Trinity who desires intimate communication. He knows everything and wants to share God's heart and wisdom.

Communication Channels. God communicates through various means: Scripture, inner promptings, circumstances, and direct spiritual impressions. The key is developing sensitivity to recognize His voice.

Continuous Dialogue. Intimacy with the Holy Spirit is not about occasional encounters, but continuous, moment-by-moment communion. He is always present, always speaking, always desiring to guide and comfort.

5. Prayer in Tongues is a Language of Spiritual Intimacy

"For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God" (1 Cor. 14:2)

Spiritual Communication. Praying in tongues provides a direct, unfiltered communication with God that transcends human understanding. It allows the spirit to communicate mysteries that the natural mind cannot comprehend.

Spiritual Strengthening. This form of prayer builds spiritual muscle, developing inner sensitivity and expanding one's capacity to hear and understand divine communication.

Supernatural Intercession. Beyond personal edification, tongues enable believers to pray precisely for situations where they lack complete understanding, allowing the Holy Spirit to intercede through them.

6. Faith Determines Your Spiritual Experience

"Without faith it is impossible to please Him" (Heb. 11:6)

Faith's Mechanism. God responds to faith, not need. Believing precedes receiving, and confidence in God's character is more important than the intensity of one's request.

Spiritual Perception. Faith creates spiritual perception, enabling believers to see and experience realities beyond natural limitations. It transforms possibility into actuality.

Continuous Growth. Faith is like a muscle - it grows through exercise, challenges, and consistent exposure to God's Word.

7. Obedience is the Pathway to God's Heart

"If you love Me, keep My commandments" (John 14:15)

Love Expressed Through Action. True love for God is demonstrated through willing, joyful obedience, not just emotional sentiment.

Intimacy's Requirement. Obedience is not a burden but a privilege that opens deeper levels of relationship with God. Each act of submission reveals more of God's character and heart.

Transformation Process. Consistent obedience gradually transforms believers, aligning their will with God's and creating increasing spiritual sensitivity.

8. Worship Goes Beyond External Actions

"God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth" (John 4:24)

Heart-Centered Worship. Genuine worship transcends musical styles or religious rituals, focusing instead on authentic, heart-level surrender.

Lifestyle Perspective. Worship is a 24/7 lifestyle of honoring God, not confined to specific moments or locations.

Intimate Expression. True worship reveals the depth of one's relationship with God, expressing love, reverence, and complete devotion.

9. Spiritual Maturity Requires Developing Inner Senses

"The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD" (Prov. 20:27)

Spiritual Perception. Just as physical senses can be trained, spiritual senses can be developed through consistent practice and sensitivity.

Discernment Development. Mature believers learn to perceive spiritual realities beyond natural understanding, distinguishing divine guidance from personal emotions or external influences.

Continuous Learning. Spiritual growth is an ongoing journey of becoming more attuned to God's voice and ways.

10. God's Presence Reveals Mysteries

"The secret of the LORD is with those who fear Him" (Ps. 25:14)

Divine Revelation. God delights in sharing His secrets with those who approach Him with reverence, humility, and genuine hunger.

Transformative Encounter. Experiencing God's presence is not just about receiving information, but about fundamental personal transformation.

Unlimited Access. Through Jesus, believers have complete access to God's heart, wisdom, and mysterious counsel.

Last updated: January 1, 2025