What Does It Mean to Draw Close to God?

In times of crisis, in times of praise, and in everything in between, we are encouraged to “draw close to God.” I must admit, I often have no idea what this means. Does it mean praying, singing, relationship-building, connecting with nature, serving others, lamenting, etc.? What does it actually mean for us to “draw close to God”? 

Come near to God and God will come near to you. - James 4:8

Take a deep breath. Ask yourself, what does it mean for me  “to be close to God” or to “draw close to God”? What has this looked like historically in your faith journey? What has changed? What are some practices that still feel safe and good? Take several minutes to reflect. 

Drawing close or connecting with God often can be a mix of different practices that connect us to safety, belonging, love, present awareness, ourselves, and others. Connection with God keeps us awake to life, helps us process, and atunes us to our collective humanity. 

Keep reflecting and wrestling with what “drawing close to God” means for you. What are ways you can build micro spiritual practices into your day-to-day to integrate God connection more?

• Dottie Oleson