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### Day 1: Intentional Effort to Draw Near

**Description:** Drawing nearer to God requires a deliberate and conscious effort. It is not something that happens by accident or without intention. Just as we prioritize relationships with our significant others and family, we must also prioritize our relationship with God. This intentionality brings us into His presence, offering comfort, security, and peace. By setting aside time each day to focus on God, we can cultivate a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Him. This involves making daily choices that reflect our commitment to seeking Him and being open to His guidance. [35:54]

**Bible Passage:** "But from there you will seek the Lord your God and you will find him, if you search after him with all your heart and with all your soul." (Deuteronomy 4:29, ESV)

**Reflection:** What specific steps can you take today to intentionally draw nearer to God? Consider setting aside a dedicated time for prayer and reflection, free from distractions.


### Day 2: Overcoming Hindrances

**Description:** Sin and distractions can significantly hinder our ability to draw near to God. These obstacles can create a barrier between us and God, making it difficult to experience His presence fully. James 4:8 emphasizes the need to purify our hearts and be fully devoted to God, not divided between the world and Him. To overcome these hindrances, we must be aware of them and take proactive steps to address them. This may involve confessing and repenting of our sins, removing distractions from our lives, and making a conscious effort to focus on God. By doing so, we can create a clear path to a closer relationship with Him. [39:17]

**Bible Passage:** "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." (James 4:8, ESV)

**Reflection:** Identify one sin or distraction in your life that is hindering your relationship with God. What steps can you take today to overcome this obstacle and draw nearer to Him?


### Day 3: Transformation through Closeness

**Description:** Drawing nearer to God leads to true transformation and growth. As we spend time in His presence, we reflect His glory and are changed into His image. This transformation is not a one-time event but a continuous process that requires daily intentionality. By seeking God and allowing His presence to work in our lives, we can experience a profound change that aligns us more closely with His will and purpose. This transformation involves a deepening of our understanding of God's love and grace, as well as a greater ability to live out our faith in practical ways. [44:38]

**Bible Passage:** "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)

**Reflection:** How have you experienced transformation in your life as a result of drawing nearer to God? What areas of your life still need to be transformed by His presence?


### Day 4: Benefits of Nearness

**Description:** Being near to God offers numerous benefits, including a deeper understanding of His love and grace, peace, and joy. It also enables us to fulfill our God-given purpose and bear fruit in our lives. Psalm 73:28 highlights the personal benefits of being close to God, describing it as a place of refuge and shelter. By drawing nearer to God, we can experience the fullness of His love and the security that comes from being in His presence. This nearness provides us with the strength and guidance we need to navigate the challenges of life and to live out our faith in meaningful ways. [37:04]

**Bible Passage:** "But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works." (Psalm 73:28, ESV)

**Reflection:** Reflect on a time when you felt particularly close to God. What benefits did you experience during that time, and how can you seek to maintain that closeness in your daily life?


### Day 5: Practical Steps to Draw Nearer

**Description:** To deepen our relationship with God, we must take practical steps such as participating in periods of prayer and fasting, confessing and repenting of any sins, and being intentional about spending time with God. Surrounding ourselves with a community of believers who can encourage and challenge us is also essential. These practical steps help us to focus on God and to cultivate a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Him. By setting aside distractions and dedicating time to prayer and reflection, we can experience the transformative power of God's presence in our lives. [48:07]

**Bible Passage:** "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)

**Reflection:** What practical steps can you take today to draw nearer to God? Consider joining a prayer group, setting aside time for personal reflection, or seeking accountability from a trusted friend or mentor.