5-6-2026 | Living Close to God

Published May 6, 2026

James 4:8 - "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." 

We often encounter people who seem to act in ways that challenge our understanding of love.. kindness.. and integrity…. It’s easy to become frustrated or disheartened when we see those around us… friends.. family.. coworkers… exhibiting behaviors that don’t align with the values we hold dear. 

However… as believers… we must remember that our expectations of others should be rooted in their relationship with God. 

“When we draw close to God… we begin to reflect His character… His love.. grace.. and mercy…. But..  not everyone has that same relationship…. Just as we can’t expect someone who lives far away to understand the differences of our neighborhood… we can't expect those who are distant from God to mirror the values and behaviors that come naturally to those who walk closely with Him. 

Consider the story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32)…. The younger son chose to distance himself from his father… pursuing a life of indulgence and separation…. In his absence… he adopted behaviors that were far removed from the love and guidance of his father…. It wasn't until he found himself in dire circumstances that he recognized the emptiness of his choices and returned home…. His father… full of compassion.. welcomed him back with open arms… illustrating the boundless love of God for those who stray. 

  • Instead of reacting in frustration to those who act contrary to our values… let’s respond with compassion…. They may not know the fullness of God’s love or the peace that comes from walking closely with Him…. We are called to be ambassadors of Christ… reflecting His love and grace. 

  • Rather than harboring resentment or disappointment… let’s commit to praying for those who are distant from God…. Pray that they may encounter His presence and experience transformation in their lives. 

  • It's essential to reflect on our spiritual journey…. Are we drawing near to God?... Are we cultivating our relationship with Him so that His character becomes evident in our actions?... As we grow closer to Him… we’ll naturally extend His love to those around us.