The believer in Jesus Christ a lot of times will start their Christian walk on fire for Him. They will consume the Word of God like it is water. They will have an intense desire to fellowship with other believers. Then life happens. They do not have that same energy years later. It seems like their fire has become deem. I want to encourage you as I encourage myself to “Stay Close”.

     The reality is that Jesus has not moved or changed. Hebrews 13:8 reminds us, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” You and I have changed. We have moved away from Jesus.

     “Stay Close” to Jesus to minimize distractions. Galatians 5:7-8 says, “You were running the race so well. Who has held you back from following the truth? It certainly isn’t God, for he is the one who called you to freedom.”

   “Stay Close” to Jesus so you can run your race and not someone else’s. Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages us with these words, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.”

     Your relationship with Jesus is more important than a church building. Your walk with Jesus is about living your life OUT LOUD to a dying world. The only way you and I will run our race successfully is that we “Stay Close” to Jesus!

Search myself and go deeper:

1. If life has happened to me and my fire for Jesus has dwindled, what can I do to ignite it?
2. How can I “Stay Close” to Jesus?

“Stay Close” Prayer: Most Gracious, Heavenly Father, I thank you that today is a new day. I thank you that you are so loving and forgiving. Lord, I must admit to you that the fire I once had for reading your Word, being in your presence, and living for you has diminished. Jesus, rekindle the fire in me I once had. I desire to know you more and on an intimate level. I have allowed the cares of this world to distract me. I want to “Stay Close” to you because your presence is the best place for me to be. Jesus, I thank you that you are bringing me closer to you. In your name, I pray. Amen.