It is the heart that puts distance between us and God.

That was written by A.W. Tozer, a theologian from the Twentieth Century. His words are still read by many, including myself. I’m fascinated how he puts things in perspective. For this year, I’m reacquainting myself with the attributes of God.

Photo taken somewhere in the North Pacific Ocean.

Have you ever felt very far away from God? I have—just the other day. As I began to read about this chapter’s attribute of God, Omnipresence, I realized that God is everywhere, near everyone. Feelings are not reliable I know, but sometimes we need to be reminded that our feelings are not necessarily always accurate. I felt far away from God just this week. We were on the road in the ShirleyQ, our RV, headed south to a beach town in California to spend time with some of my siblings. I’ve been battling with myself, not liking what I see. I’m not as kind as I should be. I’m impatient with other drivers, and honestly, even with my dear husband, Jim. It feels like I’m on a too short fuse and get irritated far too quickly. As we drove, we listened to talk radio, but then we lost the signal in the mountains, and I put on a Worship CD. The words to one of the songs, pierced my heart—the core of my being. The words? I’ll share them:

Draw me close to You

Never let me go

I lay it down again

To hear You say that I’m Your friend

You are my desire

No one else will do

Cause nothing else could take Your place…

Help me find the way

Bring me back to You

Help me know You are near

(Kelly Carpenter)

You know what? As I was singing along with Michael W. Smith, I began a silent prayer, asking the very thing I was singing. Draw me close, Lord. I want you right near me. Near my heart, my first thought of speaking with you in mind. Come close, dear Lord.

And you know what? He did just that! He came close and I was reminded of the words,

It is the heart that puts distance between us and God.

I’m so comforted that God is near. Right here. Right now. He is near you too, dear reader.