You’ve probably heard it countless times in church or during worship:
“Let’s get closer to God.”
“Let’s draw nearer to Him today.”
“Let’s seek His presence.”
It sounds spiritual. It sounds humble. But when we measure it against the Word, the idea of getting closer to God doesn’t align with what Scripture says about our position in Christ.
1. The Finished Work Puts You In Christ — Not Near Him
When you believed in Jesus, something supernatural happened. You weren’t merely forgiven; you were placed in Christ.
“But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption.” — 1 Corinthians 1:30
Notice that Paul doesn’t say you’re getting into Christ or moving toward Him. You already are in Him.
To be “in Christ” means your life is now hidden in Him. You’re not in the process of approaching God; you are seated with Him.
“For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” — Colossians 3:3
“And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.” — Ephesians 2:6
If you’re seated with Christ, you can’t be trying to get close. You are already as close as anyone can be — united with Him.
2. “Getting Closer” Implies Distance That Doesn’t Exist
When people say, “I’m trying to get closer to God,” it unintentionally suggests that there’s still a gap between them and Him — that something more needs to be done to bridge that distance. But Jesus already removed every barrier.
“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” — Ephesians 2:13
You were far off — before salvation.
Now, you’ve been brought near — permanently.
To say “let’s get closer” is to live as though Christ’s work didn’t actually bring you near enough. But His blood was sufficient.
3. What We Actually Mean: Renewing Our Mind
Most of the time, when believers say “let’s get closer to God,” what they really mean is “let’s know Him more intimately.” That’s a good thing — but the wording matters. You’re not drawing closer in proximity; but you’re deepening your awareness of His nearness.
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” — Romans 12:2
And You’re not becoming closer — but you’re becoming more aware of how close He already is.
You’re not climbing a spiritual ladder — you’re letting your mind align with truth: Christ in you, the hope of glory(Colossians 1:27).
4. The Old Covenant Said “Come Near.” The New Covenant Says “You’re In.”
Under the Old Covenant, the people of Israel couldn’t enter God’s presence freely. They had to stand outside while the high priest entered once a year. That’s why phrases like “draw near” were relevant.
But under the New Covenant, the veil is torn. The High Priest — Jesus Himself — lives in you.
“For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.” — Ephesians 2:18
You don’t need to “get closer.” You live in continual access.
5. The Truth: You Are One Spirit With Him
The language of the New Testament is not “closer” or “nearer” but union.
You and God are united by the Holy Spirit.
“But he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him.” — 1 Corinthians 6:17
You can’t be “closer” than one spirit.
6. So, What Should We Say Instead?
Instead of praying,
“Lord, help me get closer to You,”
say,
“Lord, thank You that You’re always near. Help me see and live from that truth.”
Christian maturity isn’t about getting closer to God — it’s about living from your closeness to Him.
Final Thought
Stop chasing proximity that’s already yours.
Start living from union that can’t be broken.
You’re not getting closer.
You’re in Christ.
Forever.
Key Verses to Remember:
- 1 Corinthians 1:30
- Ephesians 2:6, 2:13, 2:18
- Colossians 3:3, 1:27
- Romans 12:2
- 1 Corinthians 6:17
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