When You Make it Your Goal to Draw Close to God

One of my goals for 2019 is to draw close to God.

I know, I know, it’s not quite a SMART goal, but stick with me for a minute.

You see, my One Word for the year is “seek”, so ultimately, I aim to seek God in all that I do. For me, it all begins with meaningful, consistent devotional times with God.

I recently shared some practical ways to seek God daily and the more I do that, I’m learning some interesting things.

Turns out, when you make it your goal to draw close to God you attract attention. Here’s what I mean.

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1. When we draw close to God, God draws close to us

God longs for us to walk closely with Him so it’s no wonder that when we draw close He does too. This is a beautiful benefit of seeking God more diligently.

Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.”

James 4:8 ESV

You’ll find that you’re more in tune with the Spirit. Your conscience becomes more sensitive and your ears are attuned to the things that move God.

The flip side of drawing closer to God is this…

2. When we draw close to God, the enemy pays attention

Have you ever noticed that the days when you were doing your own thing, living according to your own rules things seemed to be going along just fine? But the moment you decided to follow God wholeheartedly, things started to fall apart.

Similarly, when we go along our merry, comfortable way as Christians, the enemy isn’t bothered. Once we decide to dig deeper, draw closer, walk more boldy, it’s then the devil has a hissy fit.

So, don’t be thrown off-guard. Expect it. Prepare for it.

When you make the choice to draw close to God, you will face opposition.

There’s a battle waging in the heavenly realms and Satan doesn’t want to go down without a fight. He’ll try any and every thing to distract, discourage and deter you from doing God’s will.

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

1 Peter 5:8

Temptations you thought were long forgotten will rise up again.

You’ll find yourself struggling to make that time with God happen. The baby, the dog, the neighbor’s lawnmower, snow blower, you name it, distractions will be there.

The Scripture continues in 1 Peter 5:9 with this encouragement:

Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”

1 Peter 5:9

We are called to resist the temptations that come our way, knowing that we’re not alone.

Which brings me to the third point.

3. When we draw close to God, others take note

When we choose to draw close to God, others notice.

Someone is depending on you – on your example of perseverance – to help them run their race. They draw encouragement from the way you keep going after your time with God.

They are watching. And because of you, they won’t give up either.

You may not even know it, but your faith is spurring someone else on, so lean in close to God.

Sure, it will get the enemy’s attention and probably send some resistance your way. But it also draws you into the heart of God, and inspires others in the process.

So, as we head into the month of March, I’m leaning in and choosing to draw close to God.

How I’m drawing close to God this month

Especially as we approach Lent, I want my time with God to be even more intentional. I’ll be spending time in the book of Matthew as I reflect on Jesus’ life and teachings using this month’s Light for my Path Scripture Plan.

Beyond that, I’m also joining my Christian blogging mentor Arabah Joy for her free Praying the Promises of the Cross Challenge (affiliate link). During the 40 days of Lent (starting March 6th) we’ll be praying one Cross-centered promise from God’s Word each day.

I’m enjoying finding fresh and fun ways to stay connected to God and His Word and I invite you to join me.

How about you?

Have you made it your goal to draw close to God? Then, yay! I’m happy to be on this journey with you.

If you haven’t decided to lean in close, may I ask what’s holding you back? I’d be happy to pray for you if you need some encouragement, my friend.

Wishing you blessings,

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