He Is So Close

Read

Acts 17:28 "For in him we live and move and have our being."

Matthew 28:20 “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Think

Did you know that ancient Hebrew writing only used consonants? It’s fascinating, especially considering how this plays into the sacred name of God, YHWH (Yahweh). The consonants used in YHWH are unique because they’re the only ones that don’t require the use of your tongue or lips to pronounce. Some scholars believe that the sound of YHWH was meant to mimic the act of breathing—inhalation and exhalation. It means that from the moment you took your first breath, you were, in a sense, speaking the name of God. And your last breath will also echo his name. Every moment of your life has been accompanied by the sound of God's name, even if you didn’t realize it.

Imagine that God is as close to us as our very breath. He didn’t choose a name that was difficult to say or reserved for a select few. Instead, he gave himself a name that we’ve been whispering with every breath since birth. This thought makes the presence of God feel incredibly intimate and constant. “God is closer to us than our own soul,” said Julian of Norwich. Every breath you take—whether you’re awake, asleep, joyful, or struggling—is a reminder that God is near. It’s as if he designed us to speak his name in the most natural, life-sustaining way possible.

How gracious is God to make his presence so accessible? He chose to give us a name that we can’t help but utter all day long. In moments when we feel far from him, all we need to do is breathe and remember that he’s right there. His name is on our lips, whether we are aware of it or not. It’s a beautiful reminder that Jesus is always with us, as close as our next breath.

Apply

Throughout your day today, take a moment to pause and acknowledge Jesus’ presence, even in the ordinary moments. Whether at work, with family, or alone, simply remind yourself, “Jesus is here with me.” Make it a habit to do this whenever you feel distracted or overwhelmed. Trust that he is close, whether you feel it or not.

Pray

Jesus, thank you for being with me, even when I don’t always notice or feel your presence. Help me to be more aware of you throughout my day. Remind me that you are near, guiding, and comforting me, no matter what I face. In your name. Amen.