(James 4:8) Draw near to God, and he will come near to us.

This is an extremely important covenant promise for us! 

This promise emphasizes and reveals how our relationship with God works.  It is a promise for every Christian. 

This is a promise that is possible at any time and at any place; it is certainly not restricted to attending a church building. This dynamic relational movement between God and us can happen in our kitchens or in the mountains, the location does not matter to God. 

This relational promise begins with us drawing near to God. How do we do that? Be assured, we do not have to do a bunch of religious rituals, because drawing near to God is all about the attitude (spirit) of our hearts, the condition of our inner lives. 

We draw near to God when we are thirsty for the living water that only God can give. We draw near to God when we have a deep inner desire to commune with God. 

I’m talking about having an inner passion to know God relationally and personally and intimately.  

We draw near to God when we humble our hearts. 

We draw near to God in prayer when we throw away all our pride and bow our hearts in authenticity and openness to God, for God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). 

In response to the attitude and desires of our hearts, the Holy Spirit—God’s relational presence—will come near to us. 

How does this happen? 

There is no static pattern, for the Holy Spirit can come to us in a variety of ways. The Spirit of God can move within us or come upon us. He can give us peace or bring healing. He can be like soothing water or purifying fire.
In the end, God’s intimate presence is an experiential mystery, but it is always for our good. 

Remember, God can never be put in a box, for he is totally free in love. The transcendent holy and almighty God coming to us, visiting us heart to heart. 

When we draw near to God. God will become active in our lives.

Are you drawing near to God every day? 

Are you intentional in your relationship with God every day?

Are you pro-active with your relationship with God every day?