Draw Me Nearer: Finding Intimacy with God Through Surrender

Have you ever felt a deep longing to be closer to God, yearning for a connection that goes beyond the surface and touches the very core of your being? That’s the heart of the hymn “Draw Me Nearer” by Fanny J. Crosby. Written in 1875, this hymn is more than just a song—it’s a prayer, a declaration, and a reminder of what it means to surrender fully and seek God’s presence.

The Story Behind the Hymn

Fanny J. Crosby, known as the “Queen of Gospel Song Writers,” was blind from infancy, yet her spiritual vision was extraordinary. She penned over 8,000 hymns during her lifetime, each infused with a deep love for God and an understanding of His grace. “Draw Me Nearer” was written during a time when Crosby reflected on her own desire to live a life fully consecrated to God. William H. Doane, a composer and close collaborator, provided the melody that carried her heartfelt words into the hearts of believers around the world.

Despite her physical blindness, Crosby saw the need for spiritual clarity and communion with God. This hymn reflects her understanding that nearness to God isn’t just about physical proximity but about surrendering one’s heart and will to Him.

The Message of the Hymn

At its core, “Draw Me Nearer” speaks to three central themes:

1. Surrender
   Crosby’s words, “Consecrate me now to Thy service, Lord,” highlight the act of giving ourselves completely to God. Surrender is not passive—it’s an intentional act of laying down our own desires to embrace His will.
2. Communion with God
   The hymn beautifully describes the joy of spending time in God’s presence: “Oh, the pure delight of a single hour that before Thy throne I spend.” It reminds us that communion with God brings peace, clarity, and strength.
3. The Cross as the Pathway
   The refrain brings our focus back to the cross:
   “Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord,
   To the cross where Thou hast died.”
   The cross is not just a symbol of sacrifice but the gateway to closeness with God. It reminds us of Christ’s love and the access we have to Him through His sacrifice.

Biblical Foundations

The themes in “Draw Me Nearer” are deeply rooted in scripture. Here are a few verses that echo its message:

• Surrender:
  “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” (Romans 12:1, NIV)
  True surrender begins with giving ourselves wholly to God as an act of worship.
• Drawing Near to God:
  “Come near to God and He will come near to you.” (James 4:8, NIV)
  This promise assures us that when we take intentional steps toward God, He meets us with His presence.
• Joy in God’s Presence:
  “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” (Psalm 16:11, NIV)
  Being in God’s presence brings fullness of joy and eternal peace.
• The Cross as the Pathway:
  “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20, NIV)
  The cross is where transformation begins, drawing us closer to God as we die to self and live for Him.

Applying the Hymn to Daily Life

What does it mean to draw nearer to God in our daily lives? It starts with simple yet profound acts of faith:

• Daily Prayer: Make time each day to speak with God, sharing your heart and listening for His voice. Let this be your sacred hour of communion.
• Bible Study: Meditate on scriptures that remind you of His love and guidance. Let His Word draw you closer.
• Acts of Surrender: Reflect on areas of your life where you’re holding back. Ask God to help you surrender those areas to Him fully.

Drawing nearer to God requires intentionality. It’s not a one-time decision but a daily choice to seek Him, trust Him, and rely on His strength.

A Closing Reflection

Fanny J. Crosby’s “Draw Me Nearer” invites us to experience the joy and peace of God’s presence. It’s a hymn that reminds us of the beauty of surrender and the power of the cross. As you meditate on these words, I encourage you to ask yourself: What steps can I take today to draw closer to God? Is there something I need to surrender to experience His fullness?

Let this hymn be your prayer and your guide as you seek a deeper connection with Him.

Pastor Harold

Pastor Harold