There was a time in my life when I drifted away from God. It wasn’t because of any major hardships or tragic events—it was simply the result of circumstances. I had moved to a foreign country where the locals spoke a different language, and there was no English-speaking church in my community. For several years, I didn’t attend church. Though I continued reading the Bible and praying, my spiritual practices became inconsistent and sporadic. This continued for about three years, and deep down, I knew I needed to reconnect with God. Most of all, I felt an ache in my soul—a deep yearning for Him. I missed His presence. That longing became the spark that reignited my faith, setting me on a journey back to God, back to the One who had never stopped calling me. This time, I sought nothing but Him alone. The feeling was deeply fulfilling as I renewed my faith, drawing closer to God, and abiding in His presence. I resolved never to distance myself from the Lord like that again.

Well, what do you know?

It doesn’t take long for the realities of life to seep in unnoticed. Soon, I was overcome by the busyness of life—juggling family, work, travel, and endless responsibilities. I became overwhelmed by the constant demands, distractions, and even entertainment that vied for my attention. The hectic pace of life and its obligations seemed to crash into me from every direction. My packed schedule left little room for quiet time, reflection, or communion with God. My mind was constantly racing—focused on the tasks at hand, the errands I needed to run, and the deadlines looming over me.

Well, once again, God intervened—and what a loving way He did it.

One day, I was on my laptop, browsing through articles online, when an illustration and a short story caught my eye. Let me begin with the image. It showed the Lord and His child sitting side by side on a bench. The story’s message was quite simple yet profound: the child had promised to spend time with the Lord Jesus every day, and for a while, the child kept that promise. But as time went on, the child let go of the Lord’s hand and wandered off—chasing butterflies, smelling flowers, and becoming engrossed in the distractions along the way. Before long, the child lost sight of the Lord—without even realizing it. When the child finally paused and looked around, the Lord was gone. Slowly, the child retraced his steps and found the Lord still sitting on the bench, right where he had left Him. Overwhelmed with joy, the child rushed towards the Lord, who welcomed him with a loving embrace. As they sat together, the Lord broke the silence and said, “No matter how far you wander, you will find Me waiting for you.”

“Return to me, and I will return to you, says the LORD Almighty” (Malachi 3:7, NIV).

The Lord works in mysterious ways, doesn’t He? Gently and tenderly, He reminded me that He has never forgotten my promise. Over the years, as I’ve walked with Him, I’ve often gotten sidetracked or let my quiet time slip away. Yet, every time, this image and story return to my mind, reminding me that He is always waiting—faithful and steadfast, right where I left Him. His patience and love never waver, and His promises remain true, even when I stumble. As I continue walking with Him, I’m learning to treasure the quiet moments and to trust that whether I’m on the mountaintop or in the deepest valley, He is always by my side—holding onto my hand every step of the way. What a beautiful reminder of His endless grace and mercy.

My friend, where are you in your walk with the Lord today? Whether you’re earnestly seeking His face, wrestling through a season of doubt, feeling disconnected, weighed down by the burdens of life, or only squeezing in moments with Him between the cracks of your busy schedule—take heart, do not despair. He is not looking down on you from His heavenly throne room; He is waiting longingly for you to call upon Him. With just one step forward, God will reach out and hold you tightly. I have come to understand that God respects our free will and would never override it. It is up to you and me to take that first step.

“Come near to God and He will come near to you” (James 4:8, NIV).

Remember, no matter where you are in your journey, His love for you is unchanging, and His arms are always open. Take that step toward Him today, no matter how small, and experience the overwhelming grace of a Savior who runs to meet you. You are never too far, too broken, or too busy for Him. He is waiting—just for you.

“Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you?” (Romans 2:4, NLT).