Week 4: Humility, Patience, and Prayer

Day 22: Drawing Near to God

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to drift? One day you’re on fire for God—reading your Bible, praying consistently, feeling His presence—and then slowly, without realizing it, the busyness of life creeps in. Pride, distractions, and even self-reliance begin to take His place. James reminds us that drawing near to God requires intentional action. It isn’t something that just happens—it’s a choice to submit, to resist the devil, to cleanse our hearts, and to remain connected to the true Vine.

Drawing near to God means stepping away from whatever has kept us distant—whether it’s sin, fear, or even our own stubborn independence. It’s humbling ourselves before Him, surrendering our way for His. The beautiful promise is this: when we take one step toward God, He takes one toward us. His nearness is not reserved for the perfect, but for the humble and the willing.

Think about the relationships that matter most to you. They thrive when you invest time, energy, and presence. God desires the same. He is always ready to meet us, but He asks us to draw near. In prayer, in worship, in His Word—we open the door to His presence. And when we do, we discover His grace, His strength, and His lifting hand.

Reflection: Am I actively pursuing closeness with God, or am I slowly drifting?

Application: Choose one step from James’ call—submit, resist, draw near, cleanse, purify—and practice it today. For example, spend 10 minutes in quiet prayer, asking God to reveal what’s been keeping you from Him, and surrender it.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I humble myself before You. Forgive me for the times I have drifted. Draw near to me as I seek to draw near to You. Keep me connected to Your Vine, for apart from You I can do nothing. Fill me with Your presence, Your strength, and Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.