By John BJ Hall
But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord God my refuge, That I may tell of all Your works. Psalm 73:28
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Cleland B McAfee wrote this hymn in 1901 shortly after two of his nieces died of diphtheria. During his time of grief, he found consolation in his nearness to God. He and members of the Park College Choir sang it for the first time standing outside the darkened home of his brother on the day of the double funeral.
We are reminded that we find rest as we draw near to the Lord. Sin separates us from God. (Isaiah 59:1-2) But God gives comfort to those who draw near to Him. (Psalm 94:18-19)
The third stanza assures us that we can find joy and peace when we are near God. Regardless of what happens in this life, we will have joy and peace if we remain close to God.
Happiness is dependent upon the circumstances of life. When we struggle with loss, grief, or pain, happiness will wane and wither in the heat of the moment.
Joy is based on the relationship we have with Christ. A relationship that will never end.
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Father, I long to abide in You, alone. Thank You for the peace and joy You bring. I find hope in Christ alone. Amen.
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This is an excerpt from the soon-to-be-published HYMNS OF PRAISE Vol 4: A Devotional Guide to the Hymns of Our Faith. © 2025 by Passages Ministries Publications.