The Lord Is Near
The Lord is near to defend and protect us, especially in times of need, and He promises to be with us and guide us with His counsel.
David Wilkerson emphasizes that God is always nearer to us than our enemies, providing defense and support in times of trouble. He highlights the assurance found in Scripture that God is close to the brokenhearted and offers His presence during our struggles. Wilkerson reminds us that as children of God, we are never alone, as the Lord promises to be with us through life's challenges, guiding and comforting us. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God's nearness and His unwavering commitment to protect and revive us. Ultimately, it reassures us that with God by our side, we can face any adversary.
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God is more prepared to keep His promises to you than the devil is to ruin you. Indeed, no matter how near the enemy comes to you, the Lord is all the nearer.
"They draw nigh that follow after mischief; they are far from thy law. Thou art near . . ." (Psalm 119:150-151). David said, in other words, "God, if my enemies are drawing so near to destroy me, You are all the nearer in my time of need."
The Hebrew word for near in this verse connotes "defense." It means, "I am near you to defend you." God says He is especially near to defend the downcast and brokenhearted:
"For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones" (Isaiah 57:15).
"The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit" (Psalm 34:18).
Are you a child of God? Does the Lord Jesus live in you? God says He is near to you in your anguish. Here is His promise to you:
"I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.
"For I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour. . . . Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honourable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life. Fear not: for I am with thee" (Isaiah 43:1-5).
David saw God as holding him ". . . by my right hand" (Psalm 73:23). He said, "God not only is near me, but He is walking with me, hand in hand, through this whole mess. Let all my enemies come after me. I've got my hand in the Father's!"
Moreover, David said God talked to him, giving him counsel and guidance: "Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel" (verse 24).
Sermon Outline
- God's Nearness in Times of Need
- God's Promise of Presence
- David's Confidence in God's Nearness
- God holds us by His right hand
- God talks to us, giving us guidance
Key Quotes
“God is more prepared to keep His promises to you than the devil is to ruin you.” — David Wilkerson
“The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” — David Wilkerson
“I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.” — David Wilkerson
Application Points
- We can have confidence in God's nearness and protection, especially in times of need.
- God promises to be with us and guide us with His counsel, so we can trust in His presence and guidance.
- We should remember that God holds us by His right hand and talks to us in times of need, giving us the strength and courage to face challenges.