The Lord Is Near

“The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth” (Psalm 145:18, ESV).

Here is David’s comfort, and the consolation of all God’s people in times of trouble. God is everywhere, but in terms of His saving power He is near to the humble and obedient—to those who turn from their own strength and entrust themselves to His providential care. So the psalmist proceeds to declare that God saves those who draw near (v.19) but will put an end to those who do evil (v.20). The final verdict is praise (v.21), for God is worthy.

Sometimes the simplest lessons of the faith are those that most need our attention. Do we remember that God is near, that He is our help in every need and danger, that His power is greater than every obstacle? Or do we rely on ourselves? The conviction and comfort of God’s almighty presence should bring us constantly to our knees. The Lord is able to save; let us look to Him, and find rest for our souls.