Closer to GodSample

How Do I Foster the Enjoyment of His Presence?

I think the best conversations are had while walking. Would you agree? There’s just something about walking and talking (with coffee in hand, of course) that breeds good communication. When my husband asks me to go for a walk, I know that’s code for “wanna talk?” And I love it. But how odd would it be if we went for a walk and stayed a good distance apart, not allowing us to really engage with each other? I wonder if we do this with God. I wonder if we say we “walk with God,” but we keep at a distance that prevents closeness and communication.

“Walking with God” signifies a reciprocal relationship. It means communication and engagement from both God and us. God went first by initiating restored relationship through Jesus. He demonstrated His desire to walk in an ever-deepening relationship with us. What do we desire? As in any relationship that has depth and deep connection, there must be mutual pursuit—intentional investment into an intimate relationship. Are we responding or resisting?

We can’t expect to sense His withness without walking “with” Him.

Consider Paul’s words to the Colossians:

"And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness." (Colossians 2:6–7 nlt)

Could it be that a lot of us receive Jesus but then resist walking intimately with Him? We treat Him more like an insurance policy for eternity. We don’t grow deep roots in Him and then we wonder why we aren’t flourishing in our faith. We wonder why we don’t overflow with thankfulness for His sacrifice or feel compelled to respond to His grace with obedience.

There is something in walking closely with Jesus that isn’t experienced at a distance. If we want intimacy with Jesus, we have to practice His life-giving way and obey His freedom-bringing commands. And when we fail to faithfully obey, which we will do every single day, we can bring our sin to Him and receive the refreshment of His forgiveness. Just keep moving toward Him. This is not one bit about striving for perfection. It’s about preoccupation with Him. When you seek Him sincerely you will encounter Him intimately.

This plan has been adapted from the book Closer to God: A 40-Day Pursuit of God’s Personal Presence. Learn more here: Closer to God - Baker Book House