The Lord Is Near

“They draw near who follow after wickedness; they are far from your law. You are near, O Lord, and all your commandments are truth” (Psalm 119:150-151, NKJV). In these verses, David is saying, “God, if my enemies are drawing so near to destroy me, you are all the nearer in my time of need.” 

God is more prepared to keep his promises to you than the devil is to ruin you. Indeed, no matter how near the enemy comes to you, the Lord is all the nearer. 

The Hebrew word for “near” in Psalm 119 connotes defense. It means God is near to defend. God says he is especially near to protect the downcast and brokenhearted: “For thus says the high and lofty one who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones’” (Isaiah 57:15).

Are you a child of God? Does the Lord Jesus live in you? God says he is near to you in your anguish. Here is his promise to you: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the Lord your God, the holy one of Israel, your Savior… Since you were precious in my sight, you have been honored, and I have loved you; therefore I will give men for you, and people for your life. Fear not, for I am with you…”(Isaiah 43:1-5). 

David also said, “You hold me by my right hand” (Psalm 73:23). God was near to David, walking with him, hand in hand, through his trouble. David was confident in the midst of his enemies because he was holding his Father’s hand. Moreover, David said God talked to him, giving him counsel and guidance: “You will guide me with your counsel” (Psalm 73:24).

No matter how close the enemy may seem, the Lord is near, and he is ready to shield and protect you with his mighty hand.