Just like a close human friendship requires time and effort, cultivating a personal relationship with Jehovah brings deep rewards. Meditating on how good it is to draw near to God can strengthen our resolve to stay close to him and enjoy the benefits of his guidance and friendship.

___________________________________________________________________________

“DRAWING NEAR TO GOD” IS GOOD FOR US

• “Drawing near to God is good for me” (Psalm 73:28) — this isn’t just poetic; it’s practical and deeply personal.
• Like any meaningful friendship, drawing close to Jehovah takes time, effort, and sincere interest.
• Meditating on the benefits of drawing near to God motivates us to keep building our relationship with Him.
• Just like healthy habits (good food, exercise), spiritual closeness requires regular attention and reflection.

___________________________________________________________________________

“DRAWING NEAR TO GOD” BRINGS HAPPINESS

• The closer we are to Jehovah, the happier we will be. (Psalm 65:4)
• His Word provides practical wisdom that protects us from harm and keeps us on a clean moral path. (Proverbs 2:6-16)
• “Happy is the man who finds wisdom.” (Proverbs 3:13)
• Sadness may come, even to Jehovah’s friends—as seen in Psalm 73—but Jehovah helps correct our thinking and soothes our anxieties. (Psalm 73:17; 94:19)
• Jehovah’s Word and the congregation are tools of comfort and clarity when we feel overwhelmed.
• Being close to God gives us meaning now and hope for the future. (Jeremiah 29:11)
• Unlike those who see life as meaningless, Jehovah’s friends live with purpose—serving the one who made them. (Deuteronomy 10:12, 13)
• Our hope isn’t limited to this life—we look forward to life in Paradise, worshipping Jehovah forever. (Psalm 37:29)
• A close relationship with God brings forgiveness, peace of mind, and the joy of pleasing Jehovah. (Isaiah 1:18; Psalm 32:1-5; Proverbs 23:15)

___________________________________________________________________________

• Continue learning about Jehovah—not just facts, but His will and principles. (Ephesians 5:15-17)
• Strengthen faith by meditating on His love and evidence of His care.
• Avoid what offends Jehovah and resist close association with those who promote wrongdoing. (Psalm 1:1)
• Every part of our life can reflect our friendship with God—honesty, generosity, health habits, hospitality—not just ministry. (1 Corinthians 10:31; Luke 16:10)
• Be kind to all, even those who don’t share your beliefs. (Titus 3:2; 2 Timothy 2:23-25)

___________________________________________________________________________

WE CAN DRAW “NEAR TO GOD” EVEN WHEN WE STUMBLE

• The psalmist nearly slipped, feeling bitter and unreasoning, but did not give up. (Psalm 73:2, 21-22)
• Instead, he acknowledged his need for Jehovah and drew close again: “You have taken hold of my right hand.” (Psalm 73:23-24)
• When we’re at our lowest, Jehovah is ready to forgive and provide strength. (Psalm 86:5; 103:13-14)
• Don’t isolate when discouraged—draw closer by leaning into worship and accepting support from the congregation.

___________________________________________________________________________

“DRAWING NEAR TO GOD” FOREVER

• There’s no limit to how well we can come to know Jehovah. His wisdom is deep and inexhaustible. (Romans 11:33)
• Eternal praise and blessings await those who continue drawing near. (Psalm 79:13; 73:26)
• With confidence we can say: “God is the rock of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:26)

Thank you for reading,
-Soli Jehova Gloria (1 Corinthians 10:31)