Just A Closer Walk With Thee
Terry G. Jones
The word walk appears some 388 times in its various forms in the New King James Version of the Bible. Many of those occurrences do not have reference to the physical act of walking, but of one’s conduct. Considering that, one cannot help but understand that the Word of God places a great deal of emphasis upon how one ought to live.
Many Bible characters were commended for walking with God, such as, Enoch (Gen. 5:22-24), Noah (Gen. 6:9), Abraham (Gen. 17:1), and David (1 Kgs. 9:4). In Amos 3:3 the question is asked, “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” Since the obvious answer to that is “no,” then we learn that to “walk with God” means to be in total agreement with God.
Just as those in the days of old walked with God, so should we. “…And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God” (Mic. 6:8)? We should daily strive to walk more closely to God. The Bible declares, “Draw Near To God, and He will draw near to you” (Jms. 4:8). That can be accomplished by daily Bible study (2 Tim. 2:15), prayer (Lk. 18:1), and seeking the kingdom (Mt. 6:33). Contained in the lyrics of that marvelous old hymn, Just A Closer Walk With Thee, there are four wonderful blessings to be gained by a closer walk with God.
Power. The first words of the hymn confess, “I am weak but Thou art strong.” Foolish is the man who fails to recognize this truth. The Psalmist was keenly aware of his own weakness and dependence upon God’s strength in his life. “Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am weak...” (Ps. 6:2). “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Ps. 46:1). The Apostle Paul boldly proclaimed, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Phil. 4:13). He reminded young Timothy that “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Tim. 1:7). We must always remember that we are weak but God will empower us to do His work upon this earth. “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might” (Eph. 6:10).
Protection. The hymn continues, “Jesus keep me from all wrong.” Among the most comforting words in the entire Bible are those found in Psalm 23:4. “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” A closer walk with God will assure His providential care and protection over us.
Provision. “I’ll be satisfied as long as I walk close to Thee.” God is able to satisfy every need that we have, whether physical or spiritual. David made a wonderfully profound observation when he said, “I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread” (Ps. 37:25). Those who walk close to God will daily enjoy His wonderful provisions.
Peace. “Guide me to that peaceful shore.” The sorrows and tribulations of this world can be overcome only by a closer walk with God. The Bible says, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6-7). Determine that you will strive to walk more closely to God, “and the God of peace will be with you” (Phil. 4:9).
The overwhelming multitudes of this world are walking hand in hand with the devil down the broad and easy way that leads to eternal destruction (Mt 7:13). However, an eternal home in heaven is in store for all who seek just a closer walk with Thee! -206 E. Penn Ave., Pennsboro, WV 26415. (304) 659-2542 terrygjones@verizon.net