Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: The term "nearing" is not explicitly found in the Bible; however, it can be understood in the context of drawing near or approaching, particularly in relation to God, His presence, or significant events. The concept of nearing is often associated with spiritual readiness, the anticipation of divine intervention, or the fulfillment of God's promises. Biblical References: 1. Drawing Near to God: The Bible frequently encourages believers to draw near to God, emphasizing a relationship characterized by faith, obedience, and reverence. James 4:8 states, "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." This verse highlights the reciprocal nature of approaching God, where human initiative in seeking God is met with His welcoming presence. 2. The Nearness of God: God's nearness is a source of comfort and strength for believers. Psalm 145:18 declares, "The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call out to Him in truth." This assurance of God's proximity underscores His readiness to support and deliver those who earnestly seek Him. 3. Nearing the Day of the Lord: The concept of nearing is also significant in eschatological contexts, referring to the approach of the Day of the Lord or the return of Christ. Hebrews 10:25 exhorts believers, "Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." This passage emphasizes the importance of community and encouragement as believers anticipate the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. 4. Nearing the Kingdom of God: Jesus often spoke of the nearness of the Kingdom of God, urging repentance and readiness. In Mark 1:15 , Jesus proclaims, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe in the gospel!" This call to action reflects the urgency and immediacy of responding to God's invitation to enter His Kingdom. 5. Nearing in Prayer and Worship: The act of nearing God is also expressed through prayer and worship. Hebrews 4:16 encourages believers, "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." This verse invites believers to confidently draw near to God, assured of His grace and mercy. Theological Implications: The concept of nearing in the Bible carries profound theological implications. It speaks to the accessibility of God, the importance of spiritual vigilance, and the anticipation of divine fulfillment. Nearing God requires a heart of repentance, faith, and obedience, while also fostering a sense of hope and expectation for the future. The nearness of God is both a present reality and a future promise, encouraging believers to live in a manner that reflects their proximity to the divine. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n) of Near.Library March the Ninth Nearing Home! The Teacher Spirit Christian Joy in Death. How to Keep the Heart Outward Bound My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year The Christ Crowned, the Fact Praying Saints of the Old Testaments Training in the Sanitarium The Torments of Giant Bad Feelings Thesaurus Nearing (2 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n) of Near. Multi-Version Concordance Nearing (2 Occurrences). Acts 27:27 But when the fourteenth ... /n/nearing.htm - 7k Nearly (13 Occurrences) Ne-ari'ah (1 Occurrence) Drawing (60 Occurrences) Premillennial Millennium Solomon (277 Occurrences) Bow (248 Occurrences) View (86 Occurrences) Resources How old was the apostle Paul when He died? | GotQuestions.orgWhy was Moses not allowed to enter the Promised Land? | GotQuestions.org Who was Simeon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Nearing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Nearing (2 Occurrences)Acts 27:27 2 Samuel 15:5 Subtopics Related Terms |