38 Near and dear
"A people near unto Him." Psalms 148:14
Jesus took our nature, and became one with us—thus He is near unto us. He gives us His Holy Spirit, brings us into union with Himself—and we are near to Him. This is our highest honor—and an unfailing source of happiness and peace.
We are near unto Him, in point of relation—being His children.
We are near unto Him, in point of affection—being loved with an everlasting love.
We are near unto Him, in point of union—being members of His body.
We are near unto Him, in point of fellowship—walking with Him as a man walks with his friend.
We are near unto Him, in point of attention—being the objects of His daily, hourly, tender care.
We shall soon be near unto Him, in point of locality—when our mansion is prepared, for we shall depart to be with Christ, which is far better!
We are near to Him though poor, when deeply tried!
And if ever nearer one time than another—we shall be nearest to Him in death.
If we are near unto Him—then He will . . .
sympathize with us in all our sorrows;
assist us in all our trials;
protect us in all our dangers;
hold fellowship with us in all our lonely hours;
provide for us in all seasons of necessity;
and certainly bring us to glory!
Let us realize this fact daily: we are
And am I near to God,
His friend, His child, His care?
O may I walk with Him in love,
By faith and fervent prayer!