“[God] is not far off from each one of us.”—ACTS 17:27. – ?????

[Bible Speaks]

“He Will Draw Close to You”

“[God] is not far off from each one of us.”—ACTS 17:27.

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HAVE you ever looked up at the starry heavens on a clear night and been filled with wonder? The sheer number of stars and the vastness of space inspire awe. In this immense universe, the earth is but a speck. Does this mean that the Creator, “the Most High over all the earth,” is too lofty to be concerned about humans or too distant and unsearchable to be known by them?—Psalm 83:18.

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The Bible assures us that humans are far from insignificant in Jehovah’s eyes. In fact, God’s Word encourages us to seek him, saying: “He is not far off from each one of us.” (Acts 17:27; 1 Chronicles 28:9) Indeed, if we take steps to draw close to God, he will respond to our efforts. In what way? The words give this heartwarming answer: “He will draw close to you.” (James 4:8) Let us discuss some of the marvelous blessings that Jehovah showers upon those who are close to him.

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have a precious gift that he has reserved for his people. All the power, wealth, and education that this system of things offers cannot secure this gift. It is a personal gift, one that Jehovah gives only to those close to him. What is it? God’s Word answers: “If . . . you give forth your voice for discernment itself, if you keep seeking for it as for silver, and as for hid treasures you keep searching for it, in that case you will understand the fear of Jehovah, and you will find the very knowledge of God. For Jehovah himself gives wisdom.” (Proverbs 2:3-6) Imagine imperfect humans being able to find “the very knowledge of God”! That gift—the knowledge found in God’s Word—is compared to “hid treasures.” Why?

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For one thing, the knowledge of God has great value. One of its most precious blessings is the prospect of everlasting life. (John 17:3) But that knowledge enriches our life even now. For example, as a result of our careful study of God’s Word, we have come to know the answers to such important questions as: What is God’s name? (Psalm 83:18) What is the true condition of the dead? (Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10) What is God’s purpose for the earth and mankind? (Isaiah 45:18) We have also come to know that the best way to live is by applying the Bible’s wise counsel. (Isaiah 30:20, 21; 48:17, 18) 

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Thus, we have sound guidance that helps us to cope with the anxieties of life and to pursue a course that promotes genuine happiness and satisfaction. Above all, our study of God’s Word has enabled us to come to know Jehovah’s marvelous qualities and to draw close to him. What could be more valuable than a close relationship with Jehovah based on “the very knowledge of God”?

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Those who are close to Jehovah enjoy another blessing—divine protection. The psalmist David, who was no stranger to adversity, wrote: “Jehovah is near to all those calling upon him, to all those who call upon him in trueness. The desire of those fearing him he will perform, and their cry for help he will hear, and he will save them. Jehovah is guarding all those loving him.” (Psalm 145:18-20) Yes, Jehovah is near to those who love him and therefore can be swift in responding to their cries for help.

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Jehovah’s position as the Universal Sovereign is unaffected by what mere humans may do or refuse to do. Nevertheless, Jehovah is an appreciative God. He values—in fact, cherishes—the faithful service of his intelligent creatures. (Psalm 147:11) This, then, is another benefit enjoyed by those who are close to Jehovah: He rewards his servants.—Hebrews 11:6.

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https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2002924#h=12