Get the appKeeping God at Arm's LengthSample
Giving in to our fears and anxieties is another way in which we keep God at arm’s length, albeit unintentionally. Most Christians do not consider their worrisome nature a hindrance to God’s transformative work in their lives, but they should. Fear can be paralyzing, especially in the face of spiritual challenges.
The apostle John characterized fear as a symptom of God’s love unembraced. (1 John 4:18) Those who live fully in the love of Christ have nothing to fear from this world or the next. The apostle Paul echoed John’s sentiments, exhorting us to bring our fears and anxieties to God, not let them keep us from Him. (Philippians 4:6-7)
For non-believers, succumbing to fear reflects self-doubt. For believers, it can indicate a lack of faith in God’s absolute power, providence, and goodness. In the words of Jesus, “Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?” (Matthew 6:27)
About this Plan
Scripture instructs us to draw near to God that He might draw nearer to us (James 4:8), yet many Christians today have a tendency to keep God at arm’s length. In so doing, they never fully cultivate the relationship true faith demands. This devotional examines the seven most common behaviors and mindsets that keep believers from truly knowing God and enjoying genuine fellowship with Him.
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