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God Is Closer Than You Think: This Can Be the Greatest Moment of Your Life Because This Moment Is the Place Where You Can Meet God

john ortberg

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What Are You Waiting For?Intimacy with God can happen right now if you want it. A closeness you can feel, a goodness you can taste, a reality you can experience for yourself. That’s what the Bible promises, so why settle for less? God is closer than you think, and connecting with him isn’t for monks and ascetics. It’s for business people, high school students, busy moms, single men, single women … and most important, it’s for YOU.God Is Closer Than You Think shows how you can enjoy a vibrant, moment-by-moment relationship with your heavenly Father. Bestselling author John Ortberg reveals the face of God waiting to be discovered in the complex mosaic of your life. He shows you God’s hand stretching toward you. And, with his gift for storytelling, Ortberg illustrates the ways you can reach toward God and complete the connection―to your joy and his.

192 pages, Hardcover

First published March 4,2005

This edition

Format
192 pages, Hardcover
Published
March 17, 2005 by Zondervan
ISBN
9780310253495
ASIN
0310253497
Language
English

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john ortberg

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Community Reviews

Rating(4.1 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
36(36%)
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33(33%)
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100 reviews All reviews
Profile Image for Kimberly .
mittalyashu
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Wow,

Just wow!

This book is truly amazing. I had the privilege of reading it while also delving into Brother Lawrence's "Practicing the Presence of God." I highly recommend doing the same as I firmly believe that the latter was the inspiration behind this remarkable larger work.

Ortberg commences by discussing the famous image known as "the creation of man" in the Sistine Chapel of the Vatican. He elaborates on the positioning of the figures. God is depicted in an awkward twist, reaching out for Adam with all His might, stretching to the furthest extent possible. In contrast, Adam casually reaches towards God, his finger just a stretch away, yet he appears too relaxed, almost unconcerned.

God is closer than you think.

The book then proceeds to explore how we can enhance our awareness of God in our daily lives. “Maybe ordinary days aren’t “ordinary” at all, but part of the required course to develop wonder-filled eyes and praise-fluent tongues.” (35)

Nearing the conclusion of the book, there is a powerful mission statement. It focuses on how we can bring the presence of God into the lives of others, building upon Brother Lawrence's concept of practicing His presence within ourselves. This mission statement is incredibly moving. I earnestly pray it for my church, imagining what a wonderful world it would be if we all prayed with such sincerity and allowed God to work powerfully through us.

“To identify our neighbours’ greatest needs, and surprise our church into hilarious giving by providing impact-full, totally happenin’ and celebratory opportunities to serve.” (Mission statement, cited 164).

This book is genuinely life-changing!
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fricksalot
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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This is a really good book. Ortberg has a writing style that is very similar to how he speaks, which makes it an enjoyable read.

However, if you are someone who is seeking great depth and profound insights, then you might be a bit disappointed as you won't find that here.

Nonetheless, it's important to note that it's by no means a waste of time. There are still many valuable things to take away from it.

The way Ortberg presents his ideas and stories can be quite engaging and entertaining. It can offer a different perspective on various aspects of life and relationships.

So, while it may not be the most intellectually stimulating book out there, it still has its own charm and can provide some lighthearted and thought-provoking moments.

Overall, it's a book that is worth giving a try, especially if you are in the mood for a轻松愉快的 read that doesn't require too much deep thinking.
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Alcast
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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With remarkable insight and a touch of humor, this author embarks on a fascinating journey. By skillfully using the vivid and well-known Bible characters, he effectively demonstrates God's unwavering willingness to assist us. Each story is like a precious gem, shining a light on different aspects of God's love and grace. It is truly a very relevant book that has the power to touch the hearts and minds of readers. Whether you are a devout believer or someone simply seeking spiritual inspiration, this book offers valuable lessons and profound wisdom. It serves as a reminder that no matter what challenges we face in life, God is always there, ready to伸出援手 and guide us on the right path. So, pick up this book and let it take you on a transformative adventure of faith and discovery.

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Aym10king
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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I wasn't a fan at first. However, Ortberg managed to win me over. The best line can be found at the bottom of page 98.

I believe that these kinds of books are more effortlessly accomplished by those with charisma. When the overt movement of the Holy Spirit is left out, it becomes all about allusions.

It's interesting to note how Ortberg's writing style and the content of the book gradually changed my initial perception. The way he presents his ideas and the allusions he makes add depth and complexity to the text.

Even without the prominent presence of the Holy Spirit's movement, the book still manages to engage the reader and make them think. It shows that there are different ways to approach and convey spiritual concepts.

Overall, Ortberg's work has proven to be more than what I initially expected, and I'm glad I gave it a chance.
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Unknown7777
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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What an enjoyable read!

The author is truly gifted with words. His writing style is so engaging that it makes his points not only easy to understand but also extremely easy to remember.

Each sentence seems to be carefully crafted, flowing smoothly from one to the next. The way he presents his ideas is like a master storyteller, captivating the reader's attention from the very beginning and holding it until the end.

It's rare to come across such a talented writer who can make complex topics seem simple and interesting. This article is a prime example of his skill and expertise. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an enjoyable and thought-provoking read.
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shiningcheese
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Love Ortberg's work! It's truly a perfect book for the stage of life I'm currently in.

As I walk this path, I find that Ortberg's words resonate deeply within me.

The book offers insights and perspectives that are not only relevant but also inspiring.

It's like having a companion by my side, guiding me through the challenges and joys of my journey.

Each page is filled with wisdom and understanding, making it a pleasure to read.

Whether I'm facing difficult decisions or simply seeking a moment of reflection, this book always has something to offer.

I highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a meaningful and thought-provoking read.

Love Ortberg, and love this book!
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rti9
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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A good book indeed. Ortberg presented several points that have remained etched in my memory even years after reading it. It's quite remarkable how those ideas have stayed with me.

Although a significant portion of the material is cited from other people, there is still great value in it. Ortberg has managed to compile and present these borrowed ideas in a way that makes them accessible and thought-provoking.

Perhaps it's the way he weaves them together or the context he provides that gives them new life. Whatever the case may be, this book is a worthwhile read. It offers insights and perspectives that can enhance our understanding of various topics.

Even if we are familiar with some of the original sources, Ortberg's unique take on them makes the book stand out. It's a testament to his ability as a writer and thinker to bring together different ideas and present them in a coherent and engaging manner.

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Not_Even
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Like so many others in these times, I find myself frustrated and disappointed with mainline churches.

This feeling is exacerbated by Christian conservative governments and politicians whose Christian beliefs and actions have the effect of alienating transsexuals, disparaging Indigenous people, LGTBQ individuals, and homeless people. They continue to treat women as second-class members of our society, attempting to control their bodies.

This 183-page book, however, is filled with evidence that God does indeed exist in our world among us. Written with a recurring "Where is Waldo" theme, John Ortberg provides example after example of God being present among us through our actions and interactions with our neighbors.

Each of us is unique and distinct. Some of us are like conductors of energy, while others are more like insulators. In the electrical circuit of life, there is a need for both. Some of us are outgoing and extroverted, while others are private and withdrawn. In the church, there is no one right way or wrong way. One size does not fit all. We love each of our children for different aspects of their character and makeup. Jesus did not say that the church was a means of entry to heaven. Instead, he said that we are to love all, and by doing so, we make room for God among us and bring heaven to us.

Laced with humor and filled with touching stories that demonstrate God's presence among us, this is one of the most inspiring reads I have come across regarding the church and Christianity.
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