Devotionals for the Heart: Why you should stay close to God all the time

Stay Close to God
A devotional by Angela Anderson

“For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock.” –Psalm 27:5 (NIV)

It was a beautiful afternoon. The sun was shining and there was a cool breeze. I decided to take a walk at the neighboring park which had a lake and plenty of seating area. I also took my journal and a pen with me, just in case I found a nice spot to sit down and write.

The park was full of people, but it wasn’t too crowded. It was as if everyone realized it was too nice outside to stay indoors. I walked around the lake two times, and I passed by the same people who were walking in the opposite direction. We greeted each other with a smile as we continued to enjoy the scenery and the fresh air.

I saw a picnic table under a gazebo directly next to the lake. I walked off the path, away from the other people who were walking around the lake, and I sat down at the table. I made myself comfortable as I opened my journal and prepared my pen to write down some thoughts.

In less than a minute, I saw a lady walking toward me. She was looking directly at me, and she sped up as she approached my table. She had been walking behind me when I circled the lake, and she noticed that I was sitting by myself. As she drew closer to me, she said hello and she smiled, but she did not sit down. Instead, she told me about a man who was seated on a bench just directly over her shoulder almost behind a tree. She asked me if I noticed him, and I could not remember seeing anyone over there.

She asked me not to look in that direction as she was speaking to me. She explained that the man was talking to himself, and his words were forceful and somewhat violent. She said that he was very animated, and it was rather intimidating. Then she said she followed me to the table because I was isolated and away from the crowd. I was seated alone and that made me vulnerable. She was concerned for my safety. I thanked her as I promptly gathered my belongings and made my way back home.

As I left the park, I was reminded of how similar this instance was to our daily lives as believers in Jesus Christ. During this journey called life, it would behoove us to stay on the path that leads us to Christ. This includes spending quality time with God, praying throughout the day, reading the Word of God (The Holy Bible), and surrounding ourselves with other believers. When we veer off the path away from others and find ourselves alone and vulnerable, we must remember that the enemy is waiting for the perfect opportunity to attack us. He waits patiently like a lion seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). Once we let our guard down, that is when we are the most susceptible to the devil’s schemes.

Whatever the cost, be vigilant and aware. Seek the attention of other caring believers who will look out for you, and by any means necessary, stay close to God.

Let’s Pray: Loving Lord, thank You for never leaving us or forsaking us. If we ever wander from your side, Lord, draw us back to you, and keep us safe in Your loving care. Thank you for Your protection. In Jesus’ s name we pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Just a Closer Walk with Thee” (song) by Mahalia Jackson. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Angela Anderson was born in Brooklyn (New York) and raised in New Jersey. 

She started writing at an early age and realized in elementary school that it was both a strength and a passion. She continued writing through high school, college, and into adulthood.

Angela is the author of a devotional book titled Just When I Thought I Knew God, and she is currently working on another devotional book that will be introduced in 2023.

This is Angela's third year as a devotional writer for Alexis A. Goring’s “God is Love” blog. In 2021, Angela was a winner of a devotional writing contest where the entry is featured in a book published by Proverbs 31 Ministries. The book is titled, Hope When Your Heart is Heavy. The following year, another one of Angela’s devotionals was published in another publication from Proverbs 31 Ministries, called Living Unbroken.

Angela has a passion for inspiring and impacting others through her writing and speaking.

Angela is a Mom Life Coach. She empowers mothers who want to identify their God-given purpose and live it fully while taking care of their family. Angela develops mothers into mompreneurs by providing them with the necessary tools to be successful and fulfilled in life. These tools equip them to see their value, understand their importance, and reclaim their identity.

Angela has been married to the love of her life, Duane Anderson for 18 years. Together they have two sons: Thomas (age 10) and Ryan (age 5). Angela’s favorite pastime is journaling.

She treasures spending quality time with her family.

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Connect with Angela:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelanderson1104/
Facebook (personal): https://m.facebook.com/angela.thomasanderson
Facebook (Author page): https://www.facebook.com/jwitikg/
Angela offers free consultations for mothers who want to pursue their dream while taking care of their family. Schedule here: www.ChatWithCoachAngela.com