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Drawing Near: A Life of Intimacy with God
In Drawing Near, John Bevere invites readers to explore a life of intimacy with God. Emphasizing the need for obedience, he urges us to practice-just as we would practice anything we hope to improve-our communication with the Holy Spirit. Understanding that prayer is a dialogue, not a monologue, Bevere encourages us to listen at the Father's feet. Study questions in each chapter offer opportunity for reflection, and a "How to draw near to God" section offers practical steps toward developing true intimacy with Him.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2004
542 people are currently reading
1327 people want to read
About the author
John Bevere
155 books916 followersMarked by boldness and passion, John Bevere delivers uncompromising truth through his award-winning curriculums and bestselling books, now in more than 60 languages, including "The Bait of Satan," "Drawing Near" and "Driven by Eternity." He is an international speaker and co-host of "The Messenger" TV program broadcast worldwide.
John enjoys living in Colorado Springs with his wife, Lisa, also a best-selling author and speaker, and their four sons.
John enjoys living in Colorado Springs with his wife, Lisa, also a best-selling author and speaker, and their four sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
May 10, 2016
Wow! This book was amazing, learnt so much. It's definitely one to read over and over.
September 7, 2012
Generally I enjoy and profit from John Bevere's books. I found much in this book to be valuable; however, the chapter on speaking in tongues was not helpful.
Bevere maintains that unless we speak in tongues we will not have true intimacy with God. (He also says that there are four different "speaking in tongues" scenarios.) This speaks to me as legalism and makes intimacy with God impossible for those who do not speak in tongues.
Bevere seems to have forgotten or ignored 1 Corinthians 12: 27 to 30; 1 Corinthians 14: 4 to 6: 1 Corinthians 12: 11.
I would also point out that Abraham, Moses, David and many others had an intimate relationship with God and there is no record, to my knowledge, of these speaking in a mysterious language.
Bevere maintains that unless we speak in tongues we will not have true intimacy with God. (He also says that there are four different "speaking in tongues" scenarios.) This speaks to me as legalism and makes intimacy with God impossible for those who do not speak in tongues.
Bevere seems to have forgotten or ignored 1 Corinthians 12: 27 to 30; 1 Corinthians 14: 4 to 6: 1 Corinthians 12: 11.
I would also point out that Abraham, Moses, David and many others had an intimate relationship with God and there is no record, to my knowledge, of these speaking in a mysterious language.
July 2, 2017
John Bevere has become one of my top authors when writing all things relating too christanity and drawing closer to God.
I love how he breaks down the word so that even a non believer can grasp what he's conveying.
This book in particular spoke to me on so many levels. I thank God that I picked it up as it was truly a blessing to me .
I will most certainly be re reading this before the year is over as it is filled with truths I need constant reminders of.
I love how he breaks down the word so that even a non believer can grasp what he's conveying.
This book in particular spoke to me on so many levels. I thank God that I picked it up as it was truly a blessing to me .
I will most certainly be re reading this before the year is over as it is filled with truths I need constant reminders of.
July 19, 2021
Este es uno de los mejores libros que he leído en la vida. Te introduce en una nueva dimensión no solo de intimidad sino de conciencia y de experiencia de su persona. Acércate a Él es una obra maestra, un camino que si te detienes a degustarlo con atención te encontraras con los mayores secretos que parecieran haber estado escondidos por siglos. Totalmente recomendado a quienes nunca quieren dejar de crecer en hambre y pasión. Este libro es simplemente asombroso, tu vida no será igual.
August 2, 2021
Este es un libro que te lleva realmente a un acercamiento más profundo con las distintas facetas de Dios, te lleva a conocer la trinidad, como también te muestras las cosas más comunes en las cuales fallamos, pero que, sin embargo podemos solucionarlas con el perfecto amor de Jesús.
Conocer cada una de las personas Dos, Jesús y el Espíritu Santo es maravilloso.
John te muestra de manera muy simples como también practica de como poder ir conociendo en mayor profundidad a cada una de estas facetas.
Solo debes de estar dispuesto a querer acercarte más a Él y amar su palabra (la utilizas muchísimo) para poder disfrutar de un encuentro con Papá.
Conocer cada una de las personas Dos, Jesús y el Espíritu Santo es maravilloso.
John te muestra de manera muy simples como también practica de como poder ir conociendo en mayor profundidad a cada una de estas facetas.
Solo debes de estar dispuesto a querer acercarte más a Él y amar su palabra (la utilizas muchísimo) para poder disfrutar de un encuentro con Papá.
January 15, 2025
I struggle to know how to review this book. Maybe a neutral 2.5? The good points were really good (eg. his ability to articulate and call the reader to a deeper intimacy with God). And yet there were other points that made it a bit of a bumpy ride. His tone felt like it crossed over from earnest to 'you must' at times. More than once my eyebrow went up over a scriptural interpretation or exegesis. There were a few times where I had to wrestle with slightly feeling condemned (I don't think it was conviction). So, all in all, I would not recommend this book to a young believer. I didn't feel like his was a voice for this time - and since there are plenty of good ones around, let's leave it at that.
June 10, 2024
I loved the true mind blowing revelations he shared with us and the buildup from the first to the last chapter, but overall the book was a very slow read for me which usually I don’t mind, but this time I really did not enjoy it. Tbh I still have 2 chapters left but I procrastinate finishing them.
March 28, 2013
Drawing Near interested me in many ways; the in-depth Bible Study, the insight to the Holy Spirit and the importance of knowing Him, the view of speaking in tongues, and the pursuit of God. I agreed with the author on the importance of Drawing Near to God in Humility and Fear; the need of Reverence. I had a difficult time agreeing with the part of the book discussing the importance of talking in tongues. Otherwise this book brings enlightenment that tops the disagreements in the Drawing of God and the need of Biblical characters who have Drawn Near to God.
Insightful and helpful study of God's Word and His desire to be in companionship with His children.
Insightful and helpful study of God's Word and His desire to be in companionship with His children.
January 31, 2016
First Bible study with Bevere and I was not disappointed. He gave practical/biblical truths on how to draw near to God. I felt he covered every chapter in depth and I learnt something new about Jesus and my walk with Him after every lesson. A thought provoking study, if used properly will definitely reignite your relations with God.
December 28, 2025
Immensely impactful - recommend.
March 13, 2019
I don’t normally like audio CDs of books as I prefer to read the book myself and soak in it a little bit but I got these CDs from a friend and decided to listen to them even though I do have the paperback version of Drawing Near. If I’m being honest I was also feeling like it would be quicker to listen to the audio CDs on my daily commute rather than read the book.
I was so pleasantly surprised because I thought it would just be someone reading the book to me but it was far better than that. It was John Bevere himself and the CDs were a collection of preaches he had done using the basic theme of drawing near to God and as such it felt like there was a power and authority in the words he shared.
There was one bit I listened to which had me in tears as I was driving, about drawing near with reverence and how so many of us in the body of Christ don’t do that.
I will still read the book at some point but it may have to wait until I’ve finished my teaching diploma as there’s a lot of work to do on that. But in the meantime, my takeaways are:
1. Reverence
Approach God with the reverence He deserves and honour Him with all of me;
2. Draw near
by spending time with Him in conversation, listening to what He has to say to me; and
3. Passion
by 2. above, keep the passion alive!
I was so pleasantly surprised because I thought it would just be someone reading the book to me but it was far better than that. It was John Bevere himself and the CDs were a collection of preaches he had done using the basic theme of drawing near to God and as such it felt like there was a power and authority in the words he shared.
There was one bit I listened to which had me in tears as I was driving, about drawing near with reverence and how so many of us in the body of Christ don’t do that.
I will still read the book at some point but it may have to wait until I’ve finished my teaching diploma as there’s a lot of work to do on that. But in the meantime, my takeaways are:
1. Reverence
Approach God with the reverence He deserves and honour Him with all of me;
2. Draw near
by spending time with Him in conversation, listening to what He has to say to me; and
3. Passion
by 2. above, keep the passion alive!
October 27, 2023
Written in 2004, the author says this book isn't a how-to on intimacy with God, but a treasure map leading to the heart of God. As always, Bevere gives many scripture references and stories that enhance and illustrate his points. Each chapter covers a specific topic that builds closeness to God.
The final chapters spoke to me the most, specifically:
-The importance of fearing God
-loving Him first without any idols
-that true worship starts with relationship not requests and is demonstrated by a life of obedience to God's commands
-that God is humble and dwells with the humble in spirit (Isaiah 57:15).
-believing in God is key
-faith comes by hearing God's words and grows by obeying God's commands
-draw near and listen before singing or speaking (Ecclesiastes 5:1-3, page 231).
Good words. Definitely encouraging. I just had a few problems with what was said:
1. Tuwb as the Hebrew word for nothing withheld or goodness on page 61. Bevere is quoting Exodus 33:19 where God makes His goodness pass before Moses. I see tuwb in the Greek lexicon, but tov is usually the word for good in Hebrew.
2. Pentecost presented in quotation marks as a feast of Israel on page 161. The Hebrew feast is called Shavuot. Pentecost is the Greek word for it.
The final chapters spoke to me the most, specifically:
-The importance of fearing God
-loving Him first without any idols
-that true worship starts with relationship not requests and is demonstrated by a life of obedience to God's commands
-that God is humble and dwells with the humble in spirit (Isaiah 57:15).
-believing in God is key
-faith comes by hearing God's words and grows by obeying God's commands
-draw near and listen before singing or speaking (Ecclesiastes 5:1-3, page 231).
Good words. Definitely encouraging. I just had a few problems with what was said:
1. Tuwb as the Hebrew word for nothing withheld or goodness on page 61. Bevere is quoting Exodus 33:19 where God makes His goodness pass before Moses. I see tuwb in the Greek lexicon, but tov is usually the word for good in Hebrew.
2. Pentecost presented in quotation marks as a feast of Israel on page 161. The Hebrew feast is called Shavuot. Pentecost is the Greek word for it.
December 17, 2019
Let me start off by saying if you are new to the Christian Faith, this is a great book. John Bevere will challenge you to grow in your walk with God. He will also warn against feel good preachers. His advice in this book is great for new believers.
For those who have been around for a while the first half the book is kind of a rehash of things you hopefully have learned by now. However, the last half of the book becomes much more interesting and challenging. I especially liked chapters 12-14.
In this book John Bevere tackles both novice and difficult questions with ease. Yet in both cases you never feel that he is talking down to you. He is as usual, very transparent about his life in writing this book. He anticipates both questions to his answers and rebuttals (especially in Chapters 11-14). He takes time to answer the additional questions and the rebuttals.
If I had to say there was one thing he does exceptionally well in this book, I would say his handling of the Scriptures is by far some of the best I have read. Context matters and he does a great job of keeping the context of the Scriptures.
For those who have been around for a while the first half the book is kind of a rehash of things you hopefully have learned by now. However, the last half of the book becomes much more interesting and challenging. I especially liked chapters 12-14.
In this book John Bevere tackles both novice and difficult questions with ease. Yet in both cases you never feel that he is talking down to you. He is as usual, very transparent about his life in writing this book. He anticipates both questions to his answers and rebuttals (especially in Chapters 11-14). He takes time to answer the additional questions and the rebuttals.
If I had to say there was one thing he does exceptionally well in this book, I would say his handling of the Scriptures is by far some of the best I have read. Context matters and he does a great job of keeping the context of the Scriptures.
April 29, 2020
This book started well and I really enjoyed the first few chapters.
However when the author starts saying on page 161 that speaking in tongues is not an option but a command, and if we don't we are not spirit-filled, alarm bells for me started ringing. I believe that this is in direct contradiction to the Bible, as it is written in 1 Corinthians 12:27-30 "Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues?"
A lot of elderly people at my church have lived through the war, and have a wonderful faith - to suggest that they are not full of the Holy Spirit (when they have lived selfless lives serving and loving others) just isn't right. The fruit of the Spirit is clearly evident in their lives - drawing close to God is surely about how we reverence Him, fear Him and seek Him, not about legalism. Consequently, when compared to scripture, I believe that this book contains serious theological error.
However when the author starts saying on page 161 that speaking in tongues is not an option but a command, and if we don't we are not spirit-filled, alarm bells for me started ringing. I believe that this is in direct contradiction to the Bible, as it is written in 1 Corinthians 12:27-30 "Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues?"
A lot of elderly people at my church have lived through the war, and have a wonderful faith - to suggest that they are not full of the Holy Spirit (when they have lived selfless lives serving and loving others) just isn't right. The fruit of the Spirit is clearly evident in their lives - drawing close to God is surely about how we reverence Him, fear Him and seek Him, not about legalism. Consequently, when compared to scripture, I believe that this book contains serious theological error.
October 1, 2024
I listened to the audio book. I would love to take the time to read the book thoroughly.
It contains substantial wisdom and guidance based on the Word of God on how to live intimitely with God daily. It's not a "how-to" book, but a "map", or "guideliness" on how to walk with God...
Covers the fundamental aspects of what pursuing the Lord looks like. And how we are to be proactive in the communication with The Holy Spirit.
One thing that stood out to me was - Seek God with bold faith, and Biblical hope, not doubt.
The book explores Biblical concepts related to that, which I found to be helpful. Although I already had the understanding of them. I found some interesting and valuable revelations from the book.
I found it inspiring and profound. The language is really understandable, so even listening to it would be a nice way to digest it.
I got great parts from it, but there is more to reveal, as the author referred to someone reading it multiple times to get a revelation "explode" in his mind haha.
It contains substantial wisdom and guidance based on the Word of God on how to live intimitely with God daily. It's not a "how-to" book, but a "map", or "guideliness" on how to walk with God...
Covers the fundamental aspects of what pursuing the Lord looks like. And how we are to be proactive in the communication with The Holy Spirit.
One thing that stood out to me was - Seek God with bold faith, and Biblical hope, not doubt.
The book explores Biblical concepts related to that, which I found to be helpful. Although I already had the understanding of them. I found some interesting and valuable revelations from the book.
I found it inspiring and profound. The language is really understandable, so even listening to it would be a nice way to digest it.
I got great parts from it, but there is more to reveal, as the author referred to someone reading it multiple times to get a revelation "explode" in his mind haha.
October 6, 2021
In my most difficult, most persecuted time of my life as a Christian, this book taught me to hold on to the Promises of God. It reminded me that “He who promised is faithful..”
When I was struggling, God spoke to me through this book.
15 years later, I’m proud to say I’m still holding onto my faith since the start. I’m a pastoral leader in my church and this book still holds such a special place in my heart. Thank you John Bevere and Messenger International, this book has changed my life, and eternity!
When I was struggling, God spoke to me through this book.
15 years later, I’m proud to say I’m still holding onto my faith since the start. I’m a pastoral leader in my church and this book still holds such a special place in my heart. Thank you John Bevere and Messenger International, this book has changed my life, and eternity!
March 23, 2019
This is not a very long book but as usual for Mr Bevere, it shares a timely and convicting message. Although not my favorite of his books so far, it still one I would definitely recommend to anyone looking to grow in their faith and walk with Christ.
Favorite Quote: “To fear God is to tremble at His word. This means we obey even if we don’t see the reason or benefit. We obey even when we don’t understand. It is obedience even when it hurts.”
Favorite Quote: “To fear God is to tremble at His word. This means we obey even if we don’t see the reason or benefit. We obey even when we don’t understand. It is obedience even when it hurts.”
December 7, 2020
The audio book is well done and I appreciated most of the book. I lost enthusiasm when I got to chapter 12 as we differ in Biblical understanding of tongues and then took a long time to finish. I finally finished as I needed another book for my book challenge for the year. It dawned on me as I listened this time that the Holy Spirit is praying for me with far more understanding — whether I speak in tongues or not. I just need to pray for him to reveal what I need to know of that understanding.
March 21, 2024
Eccl. 5:1-3 NIV
1 Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.
2 Do not be quick with your mouth,
do not be hasty in your heart
to utter anything before God.
God is in heaven
and you are on earth,
so let your words be few.
3 A dream comes when there are many cares,
and many words mark the speech of a fool.
“Remember, prayer is a dialogue, not a monologue.” ~ John Bevere
1 Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.
2 Do not be quick with your mouth,
do not be hasty in your heart
to utter anything before God.
God is in heaven
and you are on earth,
so let your words be few.
3 A dream comes when there are many cares,
and many words mark the speech of a fool.
“Remember, prayer is a dialogue, not a monologue.” ~ John Bevere
May 21, 2025
It took me a little minute to get through this, especially because I was chewing this one pretty slowly. But goodness, the Lord used this one. I was honestly pretty skeptical at some parts and had a few moments where I wanted to stop reading. What was beautiful is that the Lord met me in the unknown and confusing and taught me more about Himself. About talking with Him. And walking with Him in deeper intimacy.
I’m really grateful for this book.
I’m really grateful for this book.
May 4, 2019
A tremendous viewpoint. I was extremely blown away by his view on the Holy Ghost and and the evidence of tongues...great insight. I do not personally agree the Bible aligns with his stance on the Godhead or Salvation, but he is closer than most. This is a great book and a compelling read.
May 18, 2021
Many, many great and inspiring thoughts in this book. Some ideas and thoughts that the author pedals as unarguable doctrine happen to be things I don't agree with, but in general the encouragement to draw near to our great God is inspiring.
April 18, 2023
I really enjoyed the emphasis of speaking in tongue’s. A lot of denominations skip over this part or just say how it’s not for this time. John explained the significance and importance of it really well. That all of us should desire and use that gift!
February 12, 2024
!WHAT A BOOK! It Is simple an amazing book.
There’s something wonderful on every teaching that John Bevere taught in the book. What He has written is wonderful as He said in the book is not a step by step but is a wonderful map that guide you to a great treasure as it is an intimacy life with God.
There’s something wonderful on every teaching that John Bevere taught in the book. What He has written is wonderful as He said in the book is not a step by step but is a wonderful map that guide you to a great treasure as it is an intimacy life with God.
December 10, 2024
Truly inspired book!
After I bought the Kindle version I had to buy a physical copy for my library. A must read for every believer, there are many treasures in there and practical ways to draw nearer to God. One of my all time favorites!
After I bought the Kindle version I had to buy a physical copy for my library. A must read for every believer, there are many treasures in there and practical ways to draw nearer to God. One of my all time favorites!
February 9, 2019
Super refreshing read - the author speaks straight biblical truth without beating around the bush. Definitely encouraged and strengthened me.
June 4, 2020
Great, balanced book based on scripture.
December 22, 2020
First 75% of the book was excellent, but got bogged down with the last 25% with explaining and re-explaining and once again covering the gift of tongues... it became somewhat tedious.
March 31, 2022
A super book. Can't find words to describe. Want to read for the second time
September 10, 2022
W o w ! 🔥🔥🔥
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews