As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. Psalm 103:12, NIV
When thinking of the word “distance,” do you think of something distant or someone distant?
Physical distance is easy to comprehend. It’s the amount of space between two locations, things, or people. However, distance, in terms of relationships, is more complicated. Distance in terms of relationships means the avoidance of familiarity; aloofness or reserve. Do we have our reasons for distance in a relationship? Sure. Sometimes the other person lives far away, making it difficult to communicate regularly. Sometimes, however, we avoid communication due to being tired, stressed, or busy. Other times, distance occurs due to damage within a relationship. We may avoid being in the same location as someone, intentionally creating distance. Eventually, these unresolved issues can leave us feeling lonely, depressed, or anxious.
Consider distance with God. Sometimes, the daily decisions we make can keep us from time spent praying, worshipping, and growing closer to God. This can happen intentionally or unintentionally. Maybe we are too tired, stressed, or busy to maintain a relationship with God. Or maybe we experienced something in the past that caused us to question our relationship with Him. Before we know it, our relationship with God is distant, leaving us feeling lonely, depressed, and anxious.
But the good news is that God does not want us to be distant. He longs to be in a close relationship with us. He also wants to heal our broken relationships with others. And regardless of the past, we can start anew today.
If you have grown distant in your relationship with God or with others, you can start growing closer today by asking for forgiveness. Then, you can start fresh by reaching out and intentionally seeking ways to grow closer and prevent distance in the future.
Lord, thank you for desiring a close relationship with me, and for wanting me to
enjoy close relationships with family and friends. Help me to forgive, slow down, and reach out. Help me to grow closer to others, and to You. Amen.
By Starr Yarber-Reaves
Starr is a former teacher who has published many articles, devotionals, and short stories. She is the author of the children’s picture book, “Danny’s Big Problem with an Unfriendly Dragon.”
