Drawing Closer to God

Dear Church Family ~

As we approach Resurrection Day, we should do so with repentant hearts and with sincere worship, praise, and thanksgiving to our Lord. He defeated sin, death and Satan through the cross, thus securing our salvation and eternal life.

There were times in history when things were unstable, just as there are times in our personal lives when everything feels that way. The world seems noisy and unpredictable. Confusion rises, the future feels unclear, and it becomes difficult to find steady ground. Yet Scripture consistently reminds us of a simple, steady truth: Jesus is near. He is closer than the chaos, closer than the fear, and closer than the uncertainty we face.

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:8

If we are to walk in intimate fellowship with God, we must first draw near to Him—then He will draw near to us! We must continually seek Him with all our hearts. When life seems unstable, Jesus is our mainstay — our strong tower and firm foundation!

The disciples once faced a storm so severe they believed they were going to die. The wind was strong, the waves were overwhelming, and their own strength was weakening. Yet Jesus was right there with them in the boat. He wasn’t distant. He wasn’t unaware. He was present! The storm didn’t mean He had abandoned them. It became the place where they saw His power and His care more clearly. In the same way, when our lives are shaken, Jesus doesn’t pull away—He draws closer.

“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18

You cannot control the storm, but you can choose your proximity to the Savior. And the closer you draw to Jesus, the steadier your heart will become.

When everything seems muddled and confusing, Jesus brings clarity. Chaos can scatter our thoughts and make it difficult to understand what’s happening around us, but the Lord speaks into our confusion with a calm and steady voice. He doesn’t try to compete with all the noise. Instead, He invites us into a quieter place where His words can settle our hearts.

“…my peace I give you…not as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be
afraid.” John 14:27

The world tries to give peace by removing problems. Jesus gives peace by being with us in the middle of them.

When the future looks uncertain – Jesus guides us faithfully.
When we want detailed answers – Jesus offers Himself.
When we want a clear plan – Jesus gives us His Presence.

The Lord doesn’t promise that every step will be simple, but He does promise that He will walk alongside us throughout our spiritual journey.

The Greek word “Paraclete” refers to the Holy Spirit as an advocate, helper, or counselor. It highlights His role in supporting, guiding, and strengthening believers. The term comes from two Greek words: para, meaning “beside,” and kaleo, meaning “to call.” In the New Testament—especially in the Gospel of John—this word is used to describe how the Holy Spirit “comes alongside” believers to help them in their daily walk of faith. The Holy Spirit leads us not by showing us everything ahead of time, but by being everything we need along the way!

When life feels overwhelming, Jesus offers us rest. He shows special tenderness toward those who are tired and worn down. The Lord doesn’t ask us to be stronger than we are and He doesn’t criticize our weakness. He simply says:

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you
and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
Matthew 11:28-29

Jesus does not say, “prove yourself” or “fix yourself first.” The Lord calls us to Himself: “Come with your questions, your burdens and your pain.”

Two thousand years ago, His arms were stretched out on a cross. Today, they remain open to receive anyone who is hurting, lonely, grieving, in despair, or overwhelmed.

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1

Again, notice the simplicity of the invitation. Jesus does not demand perfection, clarity, or strength—only surrender. We come tired, uncertain, and even afraid, and He meets us with rest.

Drawing close to Jesus involves:

Prayer — honest conversation with God
The Word — allowing Scripture to reshape our thinking
Worship — fixing our eyes on His greatness rather than our problems
Stillness — quieting the noise so we can recognize His voice

This is one of Scripture’s most reassuring promises: when we move toward God, He responds with nearness.

Believers in the Bible Who Drew Close to God:

David — Finding God in the Cave
When David fled from King Saul and hid in caves, his life was filled with uncertainty. Yet instead of despairing, David poured out his heart in worship and trust. “When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” Psalm 61:2

David’s closeness to God did not come from comfort—it came from dependence. The cave became a sanctuary because God was there.

Daniel — Faithful in a Hostile Culture
Daniel lived in exile, surrounded by pressure to compromise. Still, he maintained a disciplined life of prayer—even when it meant facing the lions’ den. “He went home … and knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed.” Daniel 6:10

Daniel teaches us that intimacy with God is sustained through daily faithfulness, not occasional crisis prayers.

Mary, the Sister of Lazarus — Choosing the Better Part
In a busy household filled with responsibilities, Mary of Bethany chose stillness at Jesus’ feet. “Mary… sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word.” Luke 10:39

Jesus affirmed her choice: “Mary has chosen the good part, which will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:42

Mary reminds us that closeness to Christ is not found in frantic activity but in attentive devotion.

Paul — Worshiping in Prison
The Apostle Paul endured beatings, shipwrecks, imprisonment, and uncertainty about his future. Yet his letters overflow with love, joy and confidence in Christ. “I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able…” 2 Timothy 1:12

Paul’s nearness to Jesus transformed suffering into testimony and chains into platforms for praise.

The same Savior who met David in caves, Daniel in exile, Mary in stillness, and Paul in prison, is present with you now. Chaos does not diminish Christ’s authority. Confusion does not silence His voice. Uncertainty does not cancel His promises.

Jesus spoke peace into fearful hearts:

“Let not your heart be troubled… believe also in Me.” John 14:1
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you.” John 14:27

The world offers temporary distraction; Jesus offers enduring peace. Our God does not change, even though everything around us does. In His Presence, our souls find what they truly need—rest, stability, and the confidence that we are securely held by Him. The world shifts constantly, but God remains steady and faithful.

“For I the Lord do not change…” Malachi 3:6
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8
“…the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow.” James 1:17

May you and your family enjoy the Lord’s richest blessings as we prepare to commemorate Jesus’ Resurrection! Praise the Lord – He Lives!

Love in Christ,

Pastor Paul