God's Nearness

Because of my study of the kingdom of God (as in “the kingdom of God is near”—Mark 1:15), I recently studied the way the word “near” is used in the Scriptures. I quickly found that in various places it is not used to mean that something is close but not yet here.

For example:

Psalm 34:18

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted,

And saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Isaiah 55:6

Seek the Lord while He may be found;

Call upon Him while He is near.

Jeremiah 23:23

 "Am I a God who is near," declares the Lord, "And not a God far off?

All of these texts have the word “near” used in the sense of assuring us that God is right with us. After looking at these I thought about the kingdom concept of living in the present age based on the truth of the age to come. In the age to come we will have absolutely no doubt that God is near.

That means we can be sure now that God is near. In fact God who knows no spatial limitations is just as near now as he will be then;  the only difference is our vision. Now we have some things that get in the way. Then we will see clearly.

What a powerful thought and one that I can never remember having before: God cannot be more near to me in the age to come than he is right now! I can be more aware of his nearness but he cannot be more near.

No wonder Jesus said, “Do not worry” (Matthew 6:31).

Focus Scriptures

Psalm 85:9 

    Surely his salvation is near those who fear him,

        that his glory may dwell in our land.

Psalm 145:18  

    The Lord is near to all who call on him,

        to all who call on him in truth.

Isaiah 55:6  

    Seek the Lord while he may be found;

        call on him while he is near.

Philip. 4:5  

    Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.