Question: As a young man with career aspiration and who also loves God, how do I navigate the challenges that hinder me from drawing close to God?
Key Bible Verse:
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” James 4:8 NKJV
Answer:
All young men want to be strong, confident, and successful. I am yet to meet a young man that does not want to achieve success and influence in life and destiny. My prayer for any young man or any other person reading this article, that God will elevate you in life, in Jesus Name. Amen.
However real strength and success starts with a strong connection to your Creator. Drawing close to God isn’t just about going to church or reading a verse here and there—it’s about building a real, daily relationship with Him.
What Does It Mean to Draw Close to God?
It means to:
- Spend time with Him intentionally
- Make Him a priority in your everyday life
- Talk to Him and listen for His voice
- Obey His Word and let His Spirit guide your choices
Why Should I Draw Close to God?
- He is your source of identity.
1 Peter 2:9 says you are “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people.” - He gives you strength for life’s battles.
Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength…” - He fills your life with purpose.
Proverbs 3:5-6 – “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Practical Ways to Draw Close to God:
1. Start Your Day With God
Spend even 10 minutes in prayer and the Word each morning. Make it real—talk to God like a Father, not just with “holy” words.
2. Read the Bible With Intent
Use a reading plan or start with the Gospels or Proverbs. Ask: “What is God saying to me?”
3. Worship Beyond Church
Play godly worship music and listen to sermons by godly ministers of God when you’re alone or commuting. Let it shift your atmosphere and your thoughts.
4. Join a Small Group or Fellowship
Surround yourself with brothers in Christ. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.”
5. Be Honest in Prayer
Don’t fake it—God already knows. Pour out your fears, frustrations, and dreams. He listens.
Barriers That Keep Young Men From Drawing Close to God:
1. Distractions (Social Media, Netflix, Games, etc.)
Be intentional. Set time limits or replace 20 minutes of scrolling with 20 minutes with God.
2. Guilt and Shame
Don’t let past mistakes keep you distant. 1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive…”
3. Wrong Friendships
If your circle pulls you away from God, ask Him for strength to change it. Choose friends that fuel your faith.
- 1 Corinthians 15:33 – “Do not be deceived: ‘Evil company corrupts good habits.’” NKJV
- Psalm 1:1 – “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful. NKJV
Remember this; “Choosing Friends That Fuel Your Faith”
4. Laziness or Lack of Motivation
Ask the Holy Spirit for discipline and hunger. Start small and stay consistent.
Romans 12:11;
- “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord” NIV
- “not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;” NKJV
These verses remind us that discipline, diligence, and a heart set on God lead to spiritual growth and fulfilment.
How Do You Know You’re Getting Closer to God?
- You begin to hate what God hates and love what He loves
- You respond to challenges with prayer, not panic
- You feel a growing peace and purpose even when life is hard
Closing Remarks:
Dear friend, drawing close to God isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being real and consistent. God doesn’t want religion from you; He wants relationship. And He promises, if you draw near to Him—He will come close to you.
Altar call: For anyone reading this article who is not saved and wants to be part of the family of God or you want to re-dedicate your life back to Jesus, please repeat this out loud. “Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I have sinned against you. Lord Jesus forgive me of my sins. I repent of my sins. Lord Jesus come into my life and be my Lord now and forever in Jesus Name. Amen
Prayer-Declaration: Lord, give me a desire to know You deeply. Help me remove distractions, overcome fear, and trust Your Word. I want to walk closely with You every day. Holy Spirit I cannot do this without Your assistance. Holy Spirit, please help me to draw closer to God more than ever before, in Jesus Name, Amen.
Feast of Light Word Ministry
