*GOD IS NEAR EVERY TIME YOU CALL HIM* *"What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the LORD our God is near us whenever we pray to him?" – Deuteronomy 4:7 (NIV)* This verse was originally written for the nation of Israel, which was at that time the only nation chosen by God. He made a covenant with them, promising to be their God, and in return, they would be His people. Because of this covenant, God was always close to them whenever they needed Him. Now, in the New Testament, God’s people are those who believe in Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:9-10 (NIV) says: *"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy."* John 1:11-12 (NIV) confirms this by saying: *"He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God"* So, those who have received Jesus Christ are God’s children and His chosen nation. Our message today reminds us that God is close to His people, and He is near whenever we call on Him. As a child of God, no matter what trouble or need you face, do not hesitate to call on Him. He is near and ready to answer you. Maybe because of your past—your background, the kind of life you have lived, or the mistakes you have made—you feel that even after accepting Jesus, God is still far from you. But believe this promise: Ephesians 2:13 (NIV) says: *"But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ."* Also, know that you are no longer an enemy of God. 2 Corinthians 5:19 (NIV) says: *"God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them."* So, never think that you are unworthy before God, and some other people deserve God more than you. He is close to you, and He hears you every time you call on Him. *Prayer:* Lord Jesus, I believe that through Your cross, I am now a child of God. I know that God is near me and hears me whenever I call Him. Amen. ------------------ Author: Minister Lucas Kaaya https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakOdopFHWq9JX71Kj0