God So Close: Experience a Life Awakened to His Spirit

by Becky Thompson

How well do you know the Holy Spirit? How clearly do you hear His voice? How real is He in your everyday life?

Bestselling author and creator of the Midnight Mom Devotional community Becky Thompson invites you into a closer relationship with the Holy Spirit by scripturally unpacking who he is and how he moves in and through the life of a believer.

In God So Close, Thompson wants to lead you into a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit so you can have a closer connection with God. Becky will help you

explore who the Holy Spirit is and why He is importantbecome aware of God moving around you and within youlearn how to listen for the prompting of the Holy Spiritdiscern when God is leading youLong gone are the days of believing that the Spirit of God only attends certain church services or speaks to or through particular people. God So Close shows you are a carrier of his Spirit and have been filled with his power and presence. It's for His glory that you've been given gifts to impact the world and reveal the message of Jesus.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, Christian Living, Spirituality

232 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 1, 2022

About the author

Becky Thompson is the author of BeckyThompson.com and is the founder of the Midnight Mom Devotional community on Facebook where over two million moms gather nightly for prayer.

Becky is the author of ten books, Hope Unfolding, Love Unending, Truth Unchanging, My Real Story, Midnight Mom Devotional, Peace, God So Close, Midnight Dad Devotional, Tonight We Pray for the Momma, and Healing Rest.

Becky lives in NW Oklahoma with her husband, Jared, and their three children.

Reviews

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I waited so long to do a review of this book because I was trying to figure out how to also do a review/recommendation of this on libro.fm and realized I would probably not get to it for a while, so here is the GoodReads review if nothing else.

This book was FANTASTIC. It spoke to me and I am SO GLAD that it focused on the Holy Spirit, as the Holy Spirit seems to always get short shrift when it comes to be honored in the church, at least from what I can see. Part of the Three-In-One, just as important as the Father and the Son.

This book was beautiful and I am so glad that I got to listen to it instead of reading it, as I think I got more out of it from the emphasis of the narrator, who did a smashing job btw. I have discovered audio books, which have made my commute 1,000 times better, when the book is a good one.

This one actually made me not hate my drive and kept me on an even keel the entire time I listened to it.

I highly recommend the audio version of this book, though I am sure reading it won't hurt either. 5, so amazing and definitely going to be a re-listen, stars!

My thanks to libro.fm and Thomas Nelson for an audio ARC of this book to listen to and review.

[Brooke (iambookish_brooke) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was wonderful. Very well written. All of the truths were beautifully and approach-ably laid out with plentiful scripture references. Each chapter ending with guided prayer and reflection points was perfect. We believers need this book badly!

Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for the ARC of this amazing book.

[Leigh Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a general refresh in your faith, and more specifically, to understand the Holy Spirit on an entirely new level, this book is for you! So many parts of this book were eye-opening for me although I have been a Christian for life. Becky’s perspective has depth, but her writing is so understandable and relatable, giving examples she uses with her kids that helped me as an adult, and will be definitely helpful as I support my young children in their faith journeys. While reading this book a feeling of love and comfort constantly washed over me, truly the Spirit working through Becky’s words, providing a rich experience every day of my reading. This left me wishing the book would not end! It will be one I definitely re-read over and over and uncover more each time I read it. I already see a difference in my relationship with God daily because I am more aware of the close relationship available to me through the Spirit as presented so clearly by Becky! A must read for women of all ages and Christians of all backgrounds!

[Erica Clements · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is fantastic! Following one of the things I love most about Becky's books, this feels like a conversation with a friend. It's calm, comforting, and filled with truths that speak to a Mama's heart. If you're anything like me, reading this book will become the time you take for yourself amongst the sometimes hectic life that comes with motherhood. It will be "you time" well spent as you ground yourself in truths, are reminded that you are so loved, and that there is more to your life than the problem or pile of laundry that are currently in front of you.This is chicken soup in book form and so worth reading!

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW, just WOW!!! This book was exactly what I was looking for. I have been wanting more in depth info. on how close the Holy Spirit (HS) is and the great effect he had in my life. This book from the very first page of Ch. 1 had me in tears instantly because the HS was moving. Becky is definitely in Gods plan to help Him change the world, one person at a time! I can see the move of the spirit in my life exponentially, Praise The Lord.
When she talks about how close the HS is in my life, in ch. 3, which is as close as our breath, because God breathed his breath into Adam and the rest of us when we took our 1st breath.
“From the beginning of creation, God has been present with His children as close their very breath.”
To find out the intriguing significance of YHWH, just blew me away. If you sound out these letters with vowels you get Yahweh, but you can say them w/o vowels, breathing in and out and get the same word. Awesome!
Everyone would not be able to read this book with out recognizing the closeness of the HS, and how they have changed from it. You will definitely want to pass on the joy/excitement you feel from the revelation that the HS is at work 24/7. We only need to trust, have faith, believe, and walk confidently that God gave us the HS so he could accomplish all he needed to in us, in others thru us, and all around us. Lean in, pray, and watch the Lord move, as we give up our every control over to our Abba Father, Jesus, and the HS, 3 in 1! Thank you Becky you have BLESSED me beyond words; with sharing what the Lord laid on your heart.
❤️☺️

[Molly Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who has grown up in the church and has been a Christ follower since a young age, I honestly tend to avoid “Christian books”. Most leave me feeling like I am a horrible person or I try to read it and become ridiculously bored. I know the Holy Spirit is important so when I heard Becky Thompson was writing a book about the Holy Spirit, I was THRILLED! I have followed Becky Thompson for years, and have read all of her other books, so I knew this book would be different. I knew that I would feel refreshed and validated, even if there would be some tough love and hard truths in her writing. Her writing makes me feel like I am sitting down with a friend for coffee, not lining up for a lecture.

God So Close is a book everyone needs to read. Not only does Becky Thompson pour out her heart on the page, she comes alongside you as you find the truth about WHO the Holy Spirit is and HOW that impacts your life. Also, truth about God’s presence and how that impacts us and those around us is also given. The pages are filled with verse references and personal stories. Each chapter ends in a prayer that is heartfelt and genuine. There are also reflection questions that let you dig deeper!

As someone who has sat through many a sermon on the Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts, I learned so much and feel even more connected to God and the Holy Spirit than I have in a long time. This is a must read for all!

I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Jennifer Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you want to hear some really great news? In this crazy world, God wants us to know that He has not lost his voice, and He wants us to hear Him through his amazing Holy Spirit. But just how do you go about doing that? Becky Thompson’s new book, God So Close, is a wonderful guidebook to help you gain a deeper understanding of just who the Holy Spirit really is to us. This book will help you open a door “to discover a deeper understanding of God, others, and yourself—awakening hope inside you, stirring life where you feel discouraged, and prompting you to pursue God in His fullness.”

As a mama to twin toddlers, getting to a Bible study isn’t as easy as it used to be for me, and I picked this book up during a very busy season in my life. Reading this book helped me remember to slow down and to breathe, and more importantly the author helped me realize that God’s Holy Spirit is actually no more than a breath away from us. When we get so busy, it is so easy to forget that God is with us always. He is listening and His Holy Spirit is guiding us. All we need to do is slow down and open ourselves to receive His Holy Spirit. If you also find yourself in a busy season in your life, I encourage you to slow down and give this wonderful book a read.

[Erynn Merchant · Rating 5 out of 5]

God so Close is a wonderful book that connects the Christian reader to the Holy Spirit! Becky Thompsons ability to deliver who the Holy Spirit is in a fresh new way is so captivating! Not only has this book helped to reconnect me the reader but it has allowed me to ponder the Holy Spirits presence in MY life! As Christians we tend to focus on JESUS (rightfully so) but it is equally important to desire, and utilize the Holy Spirit in our daily lives. You will not be disappointed in reading this book as Becky takes the reader through what happens when you bring God closer in your life! One of my favorite aspects of this book is the reflection questions but also how Becky uses scripture to remind us of the truths in the Bible; who God says he is and will always be! As a mother, I enjoy Becky's inclusions of her everyday life and her realism on motherhood, her mental health, her faith but also the way the Lord works through her words! This is a great book and I can't wait to gift it to others!

[Kasia Hubbard · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a refreshing book, like water to your soul. God so Close focuses on the Holy Spirit. The chapters are broken down in such a great way that invites you deeper with every chapter, starting with the Invitation of the Holy Spirit - God wants you to Know Him, The Promise of the Father - Who is the Holy Spirit, and it continues in that manner. Each chapter starts with a real story and a real life application of that chapters heading, a prayer, and reflection questions at the end. I know there are a lot of books that are written on the Trinity of God and Jesus, but not as much on the Holy Spirit, and this books approach feels like a great conversation with a friend rather than a technical or stuffy approach. I think with each level, you get a deeper understanding of not only the Holy Spirit, but how He wants to be in a real relationship with you and what and how that looks like in Becky's life, and how she has lived it out practically. Very well done!
*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. This review is my own opinion*

[Jess Coronado · Rating 5 out of 5]

Becky Thompson has become one of my favorite Christian authors, I started following her on Facebook with her Midnight Mom Devotional. She has a way of making you feel like you are sitting down with a friend while reading her books. This book is for anyone who desires a deeper connection with God and the Holy Spirit. The timing of this book couldn’t be more perfect, “It’s peace that comes from the presence of God even in the middle of everything being far from okay.” I appreciate that Becky doesn’t ever assume that the reader knows every Bible story or verse and instead she takes the time to explain it all, you never feel like “oh I should have known that.” This is a must read, especially if you’ve ever wondered why God isn’t talking to you or if you’ve felt alone. It’s the reminder that I needed, to slow down and listen and recognize that the Holy Spirit lives within us!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

With each book that Becky writes I feel closer and closer to Jesus through her writing!!

I have always been intrigued by the idea of the Homy Spirit so when I saw she was dedicating a whole book helping us understand and experience Him in our lives I knew I had to read it!

I love all of her examples of feeling lead by the Spirit in her life and trusting in the quiet whisper of His voice and seeing the joy that comes when we follow Him. I especially love the example she gave of feeling prompted to give the car rental woman the $400 cash they had and at the same moment her husband felt the same calling!! Wow!!

I have told so many of my friends about Becky over the years (I recommend all of her books!!) and this book was no exception!! I already have a couple friends who have purchased it and I know their lives will be changed from it!

[Patricia]

I love this book it was refreshment to my soul I was raised Catholic married into Penecostal so I cherish both religions very close the Holy Spirit is a very powerful. in this book the way Becky takes you through it’s just a reminder of how powerful it can be in the body of Christ. I love the way she speaks to me or at least that’s how it feels like if she wrote I love how she references her daily life in the book makes me be able to relate to her so much I love how she expresses just how the Holy Spirit is important to our daily life and how it leads us I know everyone believes differently.. I slipped away from church a few years back and I always always really try to lean on my face every day but I love how this book helps deep in my relationship with God in one day I know he’ll be back in his house praising his name.

[Laura Spurlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read from Becky Thompson! Becky has a way of telling a story as if you are good friends sitting across from each other. Each chapter ends with discussion questions and a prayer, Becky includes real-life examples and experiences that we can relate to, and it is beautifully written with a calm tone but a deep fire to spread Biblical truth. This book is powerful and really puts into perspective just how close God is and how close He desires to be with us. This book is an invitation to know the Holy Spirit in a whole new and deeper way. You are not just simply reading a book about God, you are entering into His presence. The Holy Spirit is breathed into the words on each page. Thank you, Becky, for being willing to be used by God for His Kingdom.

[Erica Shippey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I read one of Becky Thompson’s books I think this is the best one yet. Let me say it again, “This is the best one yet!” God So Close has changed my way thinking and how I see the world. As an author Becky makes her readers feel as if she is there in the room with them having a conversation. This book uses God’s word to remind us that God is always with us. Becky’s relationship with the Holy Spirit is evident throughout her book. God has used Becky once again to meet not just myself, but thousands of other readers in unique moments in our lives and remind us we are not alone, God is so close, and transform our way of how we view our personal relationship with the Holy Spirit. If you are looking for inspiration and a life changing book, this is the one.

[Danielle Kaiser-Demers]

This book is my new favorite book. I literally read it in 5 sittings. I can not wait to get the hard copy so I can re-read it and highlight all the things! Becky Thompson has a way of speaking to me like no other author has before. When I read this book it felt like she was writing it just for me. This book will not only bring you closer to the Holy Spirit, but closer to God as well. After reading this book, I can look back at so many times in my life and I know 100% it was the Holy Spirit guiding me. Read this book with a group of friends, a Bible study, or just by yourself. However you read it, you will not regret it!

[Seantele · Rating 5 out of 5]

I follow Midnight Mom Devotional on Facebook, but did not realize the author of these devotionals, Becky Thompson, was also an author. I am always amazed at how spot on these devotionals are with what is going on in my life. The same is true for Becky’s newest book, God So Close: Experience a Life Awakened to His Spirit. My friend invited me to be part of the launch team for this book, and I am so glad she did. This book is about the Holy Spirit, and I have struggled with recognizing it in my life since I was a little girl. Becky does a great job of giving examples of how the Holy Spirit has worked in her life which makes it easier for me to see how it has worked in my life too! A must read for sure!

[Megan Layaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed this work. I was so drawn in by the author's genuine heart seeking to have a loving, mom-life relationship type talk with the reader in her writing style. The intro sets the tone for the whole book: pull up a chair and let's chat about God's deep and unending love for you, His child, and this incredible gift of the Holy Spirit that lives in us, in our very breath. With so many vaguely-Christianese "self-helpy" books out there, I love the author's Biblical basis for every chapter she writes, and how she encourages the reader to dig into GOD HIMSELF for your daily sustenance and encouragement. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

[Elizabeth Cantrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This new book by Becky Thompson is a lot different than her previous books, but not in a bad way! Her conversational writing style is still the same, but this book goes much deeper theologically than the ones that came before--also, this one has a much broader audience; I'm happy I can recommend it to any Christian friends, not just moms as was the case with her previous books. This book focuses on the Holy Spirit and who he is a part of the trinity of God. Her previous book, Peace, delved a little bit into the truth of seeing the Holy Spirit as equally as powerful and equally God as we see Jesus and God the Father, so I was excited to learn that she was writing an entire book around this subject, because I think it is an important one. One of the things I liked most about the book was that BT backs up every point she's making with scripture, and not just one scripture reference. She uses multiple scriptures throughout each chapter and for each point she's making. I'll be honest, a couple of the chapters were work for me as a lifelong Southern Baptist, but there were so many times I highlighted sections while reading through this book because there were so many good truths that I wanted to be able to go back to. It's a worthwhile and timely read.

[Sheila Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book left me feeling recharged. The doctrine is simple but strong. We over complicate a relationship with God the Father, Jesus the Son and the Holy Spirit. Ask and you shall receive. It’s that simple. Choose to make a place for Him in your life. I may be alone in this but churches and Sunday schools are so focused on Jesus and his forgiveness that we forget to teach believers about the Holy Spirit. To show each other what it means to be full with His Spirit. It took me 6 months to read this book. I truly believe the enemy did not want me to read this and apply this to my life. Every time this busy momma had a chance to read something happened. I’m so thankful I pushed through.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is definitely worth reading if you're looking to enhance your relationship with God through the Holy Spirit. I love how the author writes like she's talking to a friend. Her writing is very non-judgemental, which is sometimes hard to find with Christian books.

Becky said it best in the last chapter of the book. She writes that her hope is that the book "would stir in you a desire for your own encounters with His Holy Spirit. I prayed that it would offer invitations for your heart to become awakened by Him." This book most certainly did these things for me.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever wondered how to better connect with the Holy Spirit? In this book, Becky uses both biblical wisdom and personal examples to show us how to listen for and recognize His true voice in our lives. This book is a great read and wonderful resource for all believers, wherever they may be on their journey. The fact is that the Holy Spirit is alive and active, accessible to each of us, guiding us in truth…. Will we choose to listen and obey and make Him known? Thank you, Becky, for such a wonderful gift of encouragement! Put this in your cart TODAY!

[Cassie O'Neal · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Thompson is one of my favorite non-fiction writers. I love that she does her own audio book recordings. This book was not my favorite of hers, but I did get some important things from it. Giving the Holy Sprit the attention and time He deserves and remembering that He lives in us are a couple.

Sometimes this book was too much for me because of a personal experience in one of our churches. Thompson does a good job of putting boundaries on your personal interpretations of what God is telling you and what you should share with others, though, so I appreciated that.

[Dana Andalora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Becky's writing style - it's like sitting down with a friend. This book speaks right to our aching hearts and reminds us how God is indeed so close, as close as our own breathe. Becky shares scripture and prayers that encourage the readers to reconnect with God. She shares grounding truths that remind us we are God's children. It feels like God whispered these words with Becky to share for me. Wonderfully written and highly recommended.

[Holly Browning · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was wonderful! Personal and comforting, it speaks like a trusted mentor into the mysteries of the Holy Spirit. This is such a huge need for American churches, that seem to be lacking an integral part of following Christ. We try desperately to cling to God with our own strength forgetting that He is right beside us. And how to harness this power? Read the book! Would recommend to anyone is growing in their faith. #godsoclose #beckythompson #netgalley #goodreads

[Olivia May · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is life-changing! There are so many truths about the Holy Spirit of God with scripture included that you will grow closer to God! Once you start reading, you'll not want to put the book down... it is an easy read with personal stories from the author that add so much detail to the book. If you are desiring to know more about the Holy Spirit and how He dwells in a believer's life and what roles He plays, this book is for you!

[Jennah Costa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read almost all of Becky Thompson’s books and to say they’ve been wonderful is an understatement. Her books are life changing and God So Close is no exception. I feel like so many of us struggle with tangible ways to have a deep relationship with our Father and I’m looking forward to putting her ideas into practice on a daily basis. She is so down to earth and her books are so easy to read!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book spoke to my heart! Becky Thompson’s words are genuine and relatable, and so relevant to my life. It’s like sitting across her table and sharing coffee with a friend (who just happens to be a gifted teacher.) She speaks honestly about her own encounter and intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit because she wants every believer to experience this beautiful gift that we have been given. This is a book that I will treasure forever, reread, highlight & share with friends!

[Cissy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Becky Thompson has done it again! God So Close will definitely deepen your understanding of your relationship with God. It’s like Becky was writing the thoughts in my own head as I was reading this book. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to strengthen their relationship with Christ! Becky is such an inspiration to me in her writings and how she boldly shares her faith and what is on her heart!

[Candice · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good I can’t put it down but I also want to read it slow so I don’t miss any of the goodness. Becky Thompson really explores what it means to have the Holy Spirit living in us. Her writing speaks to everyone, the life long Christian or a first time explorer. She explains the idea of God being with us in a way all can understand and backs it up with scripture which is so important, especially for the new believer. This book is a must read!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Becky Thompson details who the Holy Spirit is in relation to humans and the Godhead, how He speaks to use through ideas and dreams, and the purpose of those spiritual gifts and things we hear from Him. Everything is Bible based and educational but also has anecdotes of Becky's personal experiences given as modern examples of what a relationship with God is. Each chapter ends with a prayer and a few reflection questions which makes this very interactive even without a "workbook". I could see this being a great book club book even though it does not have the typical Bible study set up. There is a lot of great information to process and discuss and even more wisdom to start applying to your own life.

This book is written with a more casual, modern slang that refers to the reader as "friends" and makes reading this feel like you're having a discussion with a friend over coffee. This was very accessible and very educational!

Thank you to Netgalley for a free Advanced Reader Copy of this book!