Come close to God and he will come close to you. James 4:8

Devotion

This invitation in our Scripture reminds us that time with God isn’t just another spiritual task to check off a list. It’s an opening to the presence of the one who loves us most.

One of the most important parts of my day is my daily walk. It’s the time I carve out to step away from my house, away from distractions, away from chores and problem-solving and all the things that try to tug at my attention. It’s not the walk itself that matters—it’s the space it creates for me to connect with God in our “secret place.”

I take my headphones, turn on worship music, and begin there, worshipping and letting my heart settle into his presence. It becomes a time of listening, talking, laughing, crying, wrestling with thoughts or ideas, and sometimes simply abiding. And somewhere along the way, I begin to hear his voice.

Sometimes it comes as a moment of revelation. Sometimes it feels like a gentle love note. Other times it brings correction, conviction, or clarity I didn’t know I needed. Each moment is unique, just like real conversations with close friends or family.

I also notice what happens when I fall out of this rhythm. I feel the difference quickly. I feel less connected, more anxious, less centered, and far less peaceful. It reminds me that spiritual rhythms aren’t optional add-ons for Christians—they’re necessities.

Practices like prayer, fasting, solitude, and others aren’t about self-improvement or spiritual performance. They are sacred ways of placing ourselves before God, opening our lives so he can meet us, shape us, and steady us.

These rhythms don’t earn God’s love; they help us receive it. They don’t prove anything to him; they simply position us to hear his voice and experience the peace and closeness our souls were made for.

PRAYER

Lord, thank you for inviting me to draw near to you. Help me create the space and time I need to cultivate my relationship with you. When I drift from the rhythms that keep my heart anchored to yours, gently draw me back to your side. Teach me to recognize your voice, to respond quickly, and to walk closely with you each day.

Jessica King
Associate Pastor – Community Center

Practice

Carve out time each day to meet with God. It may look different for each of us, but whatever form it takes for you, choose a moment to be intentionally present with him. Slow down. Listen. Speak. Abide. Worship. Let him meet you there.

Read More Devotions

Explore other devotions like this one any time at crossings.church/devotions .