Reminder - Thornville Church - Your Source for Biblical Inspiration

Thorn Ville Church – In the rush of life through our to-do lists, emails, errands, and endless scrolling it’s easy to feel disconnected. We often assume God’s presence requires silence, stillness, or a mountaintop experience. But the truth, repeated throughout Scripture, is this: God is closer than we think. Even in the ordinary, even in the noise, even in the mess.

There is a quiet assurance found in Psalm 145:18: “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”

This verse is not just a comfort it’s an invitation. It reminds us that nearness to God is not a matter of geography or circumstance, but of openness and awareness. And more often than not, we simply need a shift in perspective to recognize how near He truly is.

When It Feels Like God Is Distant

We all experience moments when God seems far away. Times when prayers feel unanswered. Days when hope seems dim. Seasons when faith becomes more about holding on than soaring.

But distance doesn’t always mean absence. Sometimes, God is doing a deep work in silence. Other times, it is our own distraction, fear, or shame that clouds our view. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus who walked beside Jesus without realizing it, we too may not always see Him until our eyes are opened.

Evidence of His Nearness in Everyday Life

God reveals Himself in more ways than we often acknowledge. Here are a few everyday signs of His presence:

A kind word from a stranger that speaks directly to your current struggle
A sunrise or breeze that stops you mid-thought and quiets your heart
A verse or song that shows up at just the right moment
A friend reaching out when you needed encouragement but didn’t ask
Peace in chaos, even if just for a breath

These aren’t coincidences. They’re holy nudges, subtle reminders that God is walking with you, whispering, “I’m here.”

Biblical Promises of His Nearness

The Bible is full of reminders that God is not only watching from a distance but dwelling with His people. Here are a few scriptures to hold onto:

James 4:8 — “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.”
Deuteronomy 31:6 — “He will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Matthew 28:20 — “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Isaiah 41:10 — “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Each of these verses affirms that His presence is a promise, not a possibility.

Simple Ways to Reconnect

Feeling distant from God doesn’t disqualify you from relationship with Him. In fact, that longing is often a gentle pull back to His heart. Here are simple ways to recognize and receive His nearness:

Pause and Breathe: Take 60 seconds to stop and breathe deeply. Whisper, “God, I know You’re here.”
Open His Word: Even a single verse can redirect your attention to His presence.
Gratitude List: Write down three things you’re thankful for today. Gratitude makes space for God.
Talk to Him Naturally: No perfect words needed. Speak like you would to a close friend.
Look for Small Wonders: Train your eyes to notice beauty, kindness, and grace. These are signs of Him.

Remember, it’s not about striving it’s about returning. His arms are always open.

Living with Awareness of His Presence

Knowing that God is closer can change how we approach our days. We start to notice His fingerprints in places we once overlooked. We become slower to anger, quicker to listen, and more compassionate in our interactions. We gain courage for decisions and peace in the unknown.

Living with the awareness of God’s nearness means we no longer walk through life alone, even if we’re physically by ourselves. It means choosing to believe that what we cannot see is just as real as what we can.

It may not always feel dramatic or miraculous, but it will feel different. Lighter. Fuller. More hopeful.

A Practice of Noticing God

Instead of a traditional conclusion, consider this an invitation:

Today, pay attention.

Notice the small moments. Notice the stillness between thoughts. Notice the help that came just in time. Notice the quiet reassurance in your soul.

Because God is closer than you think. And He’s not waiting for you to find Him. He’s already beside you, gently reminding you: “You are never alone.”