Benefits Of Drawing Near To God Series

BENEFITS OF DRAWING NEAR TO GOD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: James 4:8

Supporting Texts: Psalm 73:28, Hebrews 10:22, Jeremiah 29:13, Psalm 16:11, Exodus 33:14

INTRODUCTION:

Drawing near to God is not only a command but also a privilege. When we take deliberate steps to seek and commune with Him, we position ourselves to enjoy divine benefits that far surpass anything the world can offer. God longs for closeness with His children, and when we draw near to Him, He draws near to us.

Many believers live beneath their spiritual potential because they have not understood the blessings that come from intimate fellowship with God. God’s presence transforms, revives, empowers, and satisfies the soul. There is no substitute for closeness with the Almighty.

Drawing near to God is not a one-time act but a consistent lifestyle. Those who make intimacy with God their priority will enjoy blessings that overflow into every area of life.

1. DIVINE FELLOWSHIP AND INTIMACY

Drawing near to God opens the door to deep and personal communion with Him.

a) Access to God's heart (Jeremiah 33:3):

As we draw near, God reveals His thoughts, plans, and secrets to us.

b) Growth in relationship (Philippians 3:10):

Knowing God goes beyond salvation; it’s about continual intimacy and depth.

c) Confidence in His presence (Hebrews 4:16):

We gain boldness to approach Him with our needs and burdens.

d) A sense of belonging (Romans 8:15):

We no longer feel distant or rejected, but we know we are His children.

Biblical Example: Moses spoke to God face-to-face as a friend because he drew near continually (Exodus 33:11).

2. SPIRITUAL REFRESHING AND REST

Those who draw near to God find rest and renewal for their weary souls.

a) Restoration of strength (Isaiah 40:31):

Close fellowship with God renews our spiritual, emotional, and physical strength.

b) Peace in God's presence (Isaiah 26:3):

Anxiety disappears in the presence of the Prince of Peace.

c) Relief from life’s burdens (Matthew 11:28-30):

Jesus invites the weary to come near and find rest in Him.

d) Refreshing for the soul (Psalm 23:3):

God restores our soul when we linger in His presence.

Biblical Example: Elijah, after drawing near to God in the cave, received strength, direction, and rest (1 Kings 19:5-18).

3. DIVINE GUIDANCE AND DIRECTION

As we draw near to God, we hear His voice more clearly and follow His path.

a) Clarity in decisions (Proverbs 3:5-6):

God leads those who acknowledge and seek Him.

b) Avoidance of pitfalls (Psalm 119:105):

His Word and voice become a light for our paths.

c) Spiritual sensitivity (John 10:27):

Our ears are trained to hear His guidance in all areas of life.

d) Protection from deception (Isaiah 30:21):

We avoid being misled because we follow the Shepherd's voice.

Biblical Example: David constantly inquired of the Lord and received victory through divine direction (2 Samuel 5:19-25).

4. INCREASED SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY AND POWER

Closeness to God releases greater spiritual influence and power.

a) Power over sin and temptation (Galatians 5:16):

When we walk closely with God, we overcome the flesh.

b) Boldness in the Spirit (Acts 4:13):

Those who spend time with Jesus carry spiritual boldness.

c) Authority in prayer and warfare (Luke 10:19):

Nearness to God empowers us to defeat the enemy.

d) Fruitfulness in ministry (John 15:5):

Abiding in God leads to much fruit in all we do.

Biblical Example: Jesus withdrew often to draw near to the Father and returned with fresh power (Luke 5:16-17).

5. FULNESS OF JOY AND ETERNAL PLEASURES

The presence of God is the true source of lasting joy and satisfaction.

a) Joy that cannot be taken away (John 16:22):

The joy of God’s presence is deep and enduring.

b) Fulfilment and satisfaction (Psalm 107:9):

God satisfies the longing soul with good things.

c) Eternal pleasures (Psalm 16:11):

There is unmatched delight in His presence, both now and forever.

d) Overflowing peace and contentment (Philippians 4:7):

Drawing near replaces worry with peace.

Biblical Example: Asaph realised that the nearness of God is his greatest good (Psalm 73:28).

CONCLUSION:

The blessings of drawing near to God are both eternal and immediate. Intimacy with Him leads to wisdom, power, rest, direction, and joy. It is in God’s presence that we are transformed into His likeness and equipped for life and ministry.

No matter your background or current spiritual state, the invitation to draw near remains open. You don’t need to be perfect to come close—you just need to be hungry for more of Him.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, draw me closer to You daily.

2. Help me to prioritise Your presence above everything else.

3. Remove every distraction that hinders intimacy with You.

4. Let my heart hunger for deeper fellowship with You.

5. Renew my strength and fill me with Your peace.

6. Speak clearly to me and guide my steps.