Counsel of Spiritual Life
Counsel #14 — When Jesus is Far Away
Picture: Counsel #14 — When Jesus is Far Away CSL 31.1
Do you sometimes feel distant from Jesus? Consider first if something in your life is separating you from His smile of approval.8 Invite God to search your heart—to shine a flashlight right into your soul and check out the contents of your mind. Give up whatever draws your heart away from God’s heart. Then, if you still do not feel close to Him, remind yourself that a relationship with Jesus is not built on feeling, but on faith in His promises. Choose to believe that Jesus is with you, walking alongside you every moment of your day and night, through His representative, the Holy Spirit.9 CSL 31.2
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1 NKJV CSL 31.3
“You are a sinner. You can do nothing to take away your past sins. You cannot change your heart or make yourself holy. But God promises to do all this for you through Christ. Believe that promise. Confess your sins and give yourself to God. Choose to serve Him. God will surely keep His promise to you if you do this. When you believe, God acts.” Ellen White in Steps to Jesus, p. 48 CSL 31.4
Reflect: How can you intentionally choose to exercise your faith in God's promises, especially during times when you don't feel close to Him? CSL 31.5