Each Friday my writing stems from a word prompt. Five minutes, one word prompt. The prompt this week is … Distant.
The first words which came to mind upon seeing the word prompt were – far off, remote, aloof. None of these words are characteristics of God.
Paul, while in Athens, addressed the philosophers by reminding them of the inscription on their altars: “To the Unknown God”.
The gods of these people were distant. These were the gods who were far off, remote, and aloof.
Paul introduced them to the one, true God by sharing His character. God is not distant and uninterested in His people. He cares deeply and is concerned about the needs and problems of His children.
In speaking of God, Paul explains:
“His purpose [in creation] was for the nations to seek after God and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him – though he is not far from any of us.” (Acts 17:27, NLT)
God’s heart is for each of us to seek Him:
“Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near.”
(Isaiah 55:6, NLT)
God created man so man could be near Him. His heart was not to be distant and removed from His creations.
“Speak to Him, thou, for He hears, and Spirit with Spirit can meet-Closer is He than breathing, and nearer than hands and feet.”
(Lord Alfred Tennyson)
while the truth is – He is nearer than our next breath.
Today I am joining … Five Minute Friday and Faith On Fire and Fresh Market Friday and Faith ‘N Friends .
It always amazes me how you can come up with such wonderful thoughts on God in 5 minutes! We do need to seek God; He is not distant, but close by us always. I loved this: “God created man so man could be near Him.”
It’s great to know that God is always near me. He is never distant. His ears are always ready to hear my voice and his eyes are always watching over me.
Whenever I am sad, the reminder that God is close to the broken hearted is such a comfort to me. I hope you have a lovely weekend.
beautiful!
Oh, yes, let’s seek God! The more we seek Him, the better we can know Him. Thanks for such an encouraging post. Blessings to you!
Saw a bloke upon the telly preach
’bout making territories broad,
asking the Lord to extend one’s reach
but that is not my God.
Another chap talked of healing;
if I’m sick, my faith is flawed.
If I pray ‘this’ way I’ll have good feeling,
but that is not my God.
Another got a perceived grace
that should leave us feeling awed.
Abba opened a primo parking place,
but that is not my God.
My God died at Calvary,
and helps carry my Cross with me.
Thanking the Lord that He is God who is near. Who sees and who longs for us to draw close!! Enjoyed your post – hope you have a wonderful weekend!
YES! So glad that God is near and wants us to be close with Him! x
Such comforting truth, Joanne. Hugs, friend.