Elohim Haqarov – The God Who Is Near
Key Texts: Deuteronomy 4:7, Psalm 145:18, Isaiah 55:6
Introduction
When we speak of God, we often think of His greatness and majesty—His power to create the universe and command the forces of nature. But there’s another aspect of God equally remarkable: His nearness. In Hebrew, we call Him Elohim Haqarov, the God who is near. This name reminds us that the Creator of the universe isn’t distant or unreachable but deeply involved in our lives.
I. Elohim Haqarov: God’s Nearness in Relationship
Key Verse: Deuteronomy 4:7
“For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as the LORD our God is to us whenever we call upon Him?”
God’s nearness is not just a theological concept; it is personal. Israel’s unique identity was shaped by the reality that their God was near to them:
- God’s Covenant with Israel:
God established His nearness through His covenant, promising to dwell among His people (Exodus 29:45). This was visibly demonstrated in the tabernacle and later the temple. - God’s Nearness Today:
For us, God’s nearness is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who became Emmanuel—God with us (Matthew 1:23). Through the Holy Spirit, God now resides in our hearts (1 Corinthians 3:16).
Illustration: Think of a parent holding a child close during a storm. The nearness of the parent doesn’t stop the storm, but it provides comfort and assurance. God’s nearness works in the same way—bringing peace in life’s chaos.
II. Elohim Haqarov: God’s Nearness in Prayer
Key Verse: Psalm 145:18
“The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.”
- Access to God Through Prayer:
Unlike other religions that portray their deities as distant and unconcerned, the Bible teaches that God hears and answers our prayers. His nearness is most evident when we call on Him in faith. - Examples of God Responding to Prayer:
- Hannah (1 Samuel 1:10-20): She cried out in distress, and Elohim Haqarov heard her plea for a child.
- David (Psalm 34:4): “I sought the Lord, and He answered me.”
- Encouragement to Seek God Daily:
God’s nearness is not just for emergencies. He desires daily communion with us through prayer and worship.
Application: Are we taking advantage of the open invitation to call on Elohim Haqarov? He is near, waiting for us to approach Him.
III. Elohim Haqarov: God’s Nearness in Our Struggles
Key Verse: Isaiah 55:6
“Seek the LORD while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near.”
- God Walks with Us Through Trials:
- Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3:25): In the fiery furnace, a fourth figure, like the Son of God, was with them.
- Paul (2 Timothy 4:17): When abandoned by others, Paul testified, “The Lord stood by me and strengthened me.”
- God’s Presence Brings Comfort:
When we feel alone, Elohim Haqarov reminds us that He is with us, even in the darkest valleys (Psalm 23:4). - Trusting God’s Nearness When He Feels Distant:
There are times when God’s nearness is not felt, but faith assures us that He is still present (Deuteronomy 31:8).
Illustration: A child learning to ride a bike might feel abandoned when the parent lets go, but the parent is always near, ready to catch them if they fall. God’s nearness is similar—sometimes unseen but never absent.
IV. Elohim Haqarov: God’s Nearness in Jesus Christ
Key Verse: John 1:14
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”
- Jesus: The Embodiment of God’s Nearness:
In Christ, Elohim Haqarov came closer than ever before, living among humanity, sharing in our struggles, and ultimately dying for our sins. - The Cross as the Ultimate Expression of Nearness:
At Calvary, God demonstrated His love by removing the barrier of sin that separated us from Him (Romans 5:8). - The Holy Spirit: God’s Nearness Within Us:
After Jesus’ ascension, God sent the Holy Spirit to dwell in believers, making His nearness permanent and personal (John 14:16-17).
Challenge: Are we living in the reality of God’s nearness through Christ?
Conclusion
Elohim Haqarov, the God who is near, is not a distant deity but a loving Father, ever-present in our lives. He is near in relationship, prayer, struggles, and through Jesus Christ.
Call to Action:
- Let us seek Him daily, as He is always near.
- Trust Him in our trials, knowing He walks with us.
- Celebrate His nearness by sharing His love with others.
Closing Verse:
“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8)
Prayer:
Lord, we thank You for being Elohim Haqarov, the God who is near. Help us to live in the reality of Your presence and to draw closer to You each day. Amen.
