All Things New: 21 Day DevotionalExemplo

Drawing Near to God

Two completely different people who enter into a romantic relationship can become similar because of the time that they spend in each other’s presence. The same can be said of our relationship with God. We grow to be more like Him as we spend time with Him.

I have always admired Daniel for the courage and conviction that he had in not compromising on his love for God. He did not stop having his regular prayer times, even at the risk of his own life. 

“But when Daniel learned that the law had been signed, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room, with its windows open toward Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God.” (Daniel 6:10)

Because Daniel believed and relied on God, he was preserved from all harm, and caused an entire nation to turn and worship God. This would not have happened if Daniel did not have a habit of consistently seeking God everyday. Of equal importance is the quality of the time spent in God’s presence. 

What should I focus on during my times of prayer and worship? Is it simply a time where I bring my requests and needs to God? David’s answer in Psalm 27:4 (NKJV) is that we simply worship and adore God in our times of prayer and worship: “One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple.”

When we are before God, we can worship and enjoy Him for who He is. We can listen to His voice. We can also tell Him about our day and share with Him our joy as well as our concerns and needs. We will grow in our relationship with God as we spend quality time with Him.

Reflection

What makes it hard for you to spend time consistently with God each day?

How can you change your daily schedule to spend more time with God? 

Prayer

Dear Father, thank You for Your promise that as we draw close to You, You will draw close to us. Give us a new desire to be found in Your presence. Help us to become more like You in speech, thought, and deed.