Moreover, in the pursuit of religion, it’s all about man’s pursuit of God, but with relationship, it’s all about God seeking those who will follow Christ and He wants to know us intimately, see John 4:23. It begins with a faint stirring in which He brings about in our spirit, then we are inspired to seek Him. He initiates the relationship, and then directs and keeps us in that relationship through quiet little messages; full of affirming guidance and wisdom.

However, unfortunately for many believers, relationships with God remain undeveloped and they fail to sense Him and His Presence, thus, He remains in the abstract. But for those who are committed, convicted, circumcised in the heart; His Presence cannot only be felt, it’s practically tangible.

Notwithstanding, mystery is a profound component, as man cannot fully comprehend the spiritual realm and the things of God. However, to view God as a complete and total mystery can severely stunt spiritual understanding and knowledge. God has provided us with His Word in order that we may become significantly wiser and more knowledgeable. Therefore, rather than remain like one who is crippled, with only vague notions of our faith and our Father in Heaven, it helps to remember that although He is far away in Heaven, His Spirit lives also in us.

Closeness with God is worth whatever obstacles need overcoming, and there is a way to outline a plan of closeness.

Through 1Thessalonians 5:17, Paul is informing his people that God wants us to come to Him with everything; our every worry, concern, our feelings and every impending decision. God likes communication and not only when we pray regular prayers, but in every matter we encounter and things regarding our thoughts. 

This is similar to our human relationships: we don't tell our friends "sorry, I can't talk to you now; it's not on my schedule for today." No, we are always there for our friends, we even drop what we are doing to come to their aid. That's the similar part; talking about everythings keeps us close to our friends and it also helps us grow closer to our Father in Heaven.

Furthermore, keeping His Ways and His Word in our thoughts on purpose, helps us draw closer, while focusing on whatever falls into our heads, including worry, can only keep us farther from Him. 

KEYS TO DEVELOPING CLOSENESS WITH GOD

1). Prayer/Acknowledgement/Talking—

A). Come to the Lord’s Throne; (confessing your sins if needed, in all humility and without pride of any kind.) Bring God into every aspect of your life. Pray about everything; fully disclose all to Him

B). Include Him in every decision and strive to make His Ways, your ways

2). Praise Him and give Him Glory—

A). Professing His Sovereignty; declaring Him Lord over your life and your every decision

B). Give Him glory; credit for every good thing in your life

3). Give Him Gratitude—

A). Thank Him for everything you can think of!

B). Thank Him for answered prayer and everything He has done or shown you lately

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything gives thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you," (1Thessalonians 5:16-18)

4). Alter Personal Perspectives—Put your troubles into a more proper perspective. Most of our problems are rather small when we look at the bigger picture. Pray that God helps you see your life through a crystal clear, new lens. This will help with appreciation and the furtherance of a healthy, godly attitude, which is crucial in developing closeness with God

5). Follow Peace—God will always give us peace when something is right (that’s His Guidance speaking) and a lack of peace when something is not right and He does this in a highly personal way, specified to our unique situation, emotional state, etc.….

6). Intercessory Prayer—

A). Praying for others is an exercise in love (including our enemies)

B). Not being self-centered does not come natural ,but thankfully, intercessory prayer is a highly effective way to fight self-centeredness

C). Furthermore, making a habit of praying for others helps us to keep from thinking more highly of ourselves than we ought to; it helps us remain humble.

7). Regularly reading your Bible

 

BENEFITS & ANTICIPATED OUTCOMES

 

Hearing His Voice (and obeying that Voice)—Revelation 3:20, Romans 10:17 & John 10:27

Seek Him--Hebrews 11:6

Experiencing His Wisdom & Guidance—Psalm 25:5 & 9

Finding & Keeping Peace/Freedom from worry—Matthew 6:34

Joy regardless of circumstances—Philippians 4:7

Endurance-- Isaiah 41:10, Isaiah 40:31, Proverbs 28:1 & Philippians 4:13 

Confidence—Jeremiah 29:11, Philippians 3:3 & Ephesians 3:12

Trust—Jeremiah 17:7, 2Corinthians 5:5

Reassurance—Romans 8:28

Knowledge of His Love—Psalm 5:11-12, Ephesians 1:5 & John 3:16

Regular Bible reading will boost experiencing God’s Love & His Presence felt, learning & knowledge, Holy Spirit Guidance & discernment, promote healthy spiritual & emotional Growth & aid in conforming To His Image

*** All of these things add up to ever-growing closeness with God***

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23)

 

NKJV