The Indescribable Closeness to God: An Exploration of Spiritual Experiences

Have you ever wondered what the closest thing to experiencing God is like? As someone who seeks to find spiritual clarity during challenging times, I have come to understand that the presence of God brings a profound sense of support, correction, and guidance. From locking doors at a mental health facility to the simple act of a spouse scratching an itchy back, there are myriad ways in which God reveals His closeness and presence to us.

The Experience of God's Presence

Whenever I am confused, sad, or mad, God stands by my side, guiding my thoughts and providing insights that are specifically tailored to my circumstances. Sometimes these revelations come through studying relevant issues, and often, they are presented according to God's timing, which is as perfect as it is mysterious.

While it is important to trust that God knows better than we do, there are also instances where the manifestation of His presence is unmistakable. For example, there is nothing quite like the heavens that are opened when a spouse gently scratches an itchy back just as the right spot needs to be found. This moment of relief and love, just like in the heaven, stands as a testament to the purity of such divine interactions.

God has granted us the ability to feel His presence through spiritual discernment. Feeling these things is a blessed gift, one that allows us to experience the warmth of the divine within us. However, it is crucial to remember that feelings cannot be the sole determining factor for truth or the basis for obedience. To hold feelings with suspicion is, paradoxically, to miss out on the very essence of a vibrant, joyful, and dynamic relationship with God.

The Richness of Spiritual Feelings

Throughout my journey, I have been blessed with a variety of emotional connections with God. These include:

Church and Worship: My experiences in church, especially during singing and worship, are filled with a sense of sweet communion with God and my fellow believers (Matthew 28:20). Such moments of collective reverence and adoration are integral to my spiritual growth.

Times of Prayer: During my moments of deepest prayer, I find God’s presence palpable. Each earnest plea is an opportunity to deepen my relationship with Him and to receive divine guidance.

Witnessing: The act of witnessing to others has been transformative. It has taught me that God’s love and grace are boundless, and they can touch the lives of those around me in profound ways.

Collisions Averted: Unforeseen moments of danger, such as averted collisions on the road, remind me of God's watchful care and protection. These occurrences serve as timely reminders of His presence.

Biblical Revelation: My awareness of the Bible being the direct inspiration of the Eternal One brings awe and wonder to my spiritual journey. The revelation of God's word and its mind-boggling depth enriches my faith.

Comfort and Hope: During times of need, whether personal or communal, God's boundless grace provides comfort and hope. His reassurance is a constant support during trying times.

Oceanic Wonder: Simply standing by the ocean and witnessing its power and beauty evokes a feeling of majestic awe and a renewed sense of divine presence.

Clouds of Expectation: The shifting, puffy white clouds in the sky inspire a joyful expectation of God's imminent return, a poignant reminder of the promise of eternity.

Reflecting on Experiences and Feelings

While these experiences and the feelings they instill are incredibly meaningful, it is also important to consider the balance between them. Some may argue that experiences and feelings are not enough, and that actions and obedience are paramount. In a spirit of reflection and balance, it is essential to recognize that doing what God asks, even when we do not feel like it, deepens our faith and relationship with Him. True devotion often requires us to step out of our comfort zones and into the unknown, trusting that His leading is always best.

As we continue our journey, may we open our hearts to the myriad ways in which God reveals Himself and may we seek Him with all our might. Merry Christmas to all, and may it be a season of profound reflection and spiritual growth.

Conclusion

In the end, the closest thing to experiencing God is the rich tapestry of spiritual experiences and feelings that He infuses into our lives. These moments are both precious and powerful, and they serve to deepen our understanding of His love and care for us. May we cherish them and continue to seek a closer relationship with our divine Sovereign.