Very Near
So much going on in our world today: wars, famines, drugs, sex trafficking, inflation, financial uncertainty – and much more that makes us fret or fear.
For some, they huddle, retreating more and more from society. A valid response given so much hate and love of men grown cold for fellow man. For others, they just ignore and think things will continue to go on much as they always have.
Many Christians believe it could be the end times, when God destroys all that we currently know and replaces it with a world that has no more of all the stuff that makes this one so hard. And they could be right – we don’t know the day or hour. But it could also be another millennia or two. Regardless of any of mankind’s reactions, the truth is, God is not far from His people. “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.” (Psalm 46:1 BSB)
So, in times like this, maybe a mix of all the responses is good. Be wary but don’t worry. Pay attention and think about the best preparation that works for you and your family. Live knowing God could return any moment but also knowing if He doesn’t, He has not abandoned you.
But there is a response that is appropriate in all circumstances at all times: dig deeper into the Bible, pray more, be bold to share Jesus, rest knowing He is sovereign and He has it all figured out. “It is good for me to be near You. I choose You as my protector, and I will tell about Your wonderful deeds.” (Psalm 73:28 CEV)
This world has been devolving and spinning towards an end since Adam and Eve decided they could be like God. Every day we are closer to the end. What that will look like is spoken much of in the Bible. The very things we are seeing unfold continue to fulfill the Words of the Lord. “Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door.” (Matthew 24:33 NIV)
Unfortunately for this weary world, things will continue to be hard and get harder. Yet God calls us to always be prepared. “Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.” (2Timothy 4:2 NLT)
Jesus is very near. He is our very breath. He holds all things together, He holds us. Draw near, very near.
parisrenae 
Thank you so much for your encouragement during these very troubling times. Your devotions always give me hope.
Marla Mancil
Marla Mancil
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Marla, I am humbled that you find hope in my devotions, may He fill you with all Hope and the comfort of knowing He holds you close at all times.
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Jesus being near is one of the great truths that I have to return to again and again to find comfort and peace. Thanks for sharing this encouragement. We all need it, now as much as ever.
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Lisa, so true, daily we have much to distract us from Truth and that is when we are weak – focusing on His nearness keeps us going in the right direction, blessings as you follow…
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Thank you, Paris for the reminder that regardless of what is going on around us, God is very near. Such a comfort in periless times!
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Oh yes, so true, a comfort indeed – may His nearness be your daily confidence that someday no more perilous times.
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