If you are not feeling close to God

 Read Isaiah 59.

If you are not feeling close to God, what is the problem?

God had not lost His power to deliver the nation of Israel.  God had not become hard of hearing to their cries for help (v.1).

Humans have a problem.  God calls it sin.  And, it is our personal sin that separates us from a Holy God (v.2).  The LORD names some of the evil and disobedient acts of the people.  As a result, they could find no "peace" (v.8).  Because of their corrupt spiritual condition, the nation knew no "justice" (v.9).  It is described as a dark time in their history.  Like blind men who were lost, they could find no way out (v.10).  All they could do was complain about it (v.11).  It was impossible for them to fix their guilt (v.12).  And, there was no one to intercede for them to make it right (v.16).   

People are helpless to save themselves.  There is no system whereby one may earn merit with God and their way into heaven.  God alone can forgive sin.  When one is willing to come to the LORD, confessing their sin, and seeking His forgiveness, He immediately supplies what is needed. 

When Israel finally turns to the LORD, the promise is that they will be right with God and He will provide spiritual salvation and national deliverance from their enemies.  God receives no glory from sin.  His purpose in offering this to them is so that the other nations "shall fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun" (v.19).

When Messiah returns He will enter Jerusalem as Israel's Redeemer and Restorer.  At that time Jesus will fully implement the New Covenant for the nation.  He will pour out His Spirit upon them and God's word will be in everyone.

It is the same for us today.  Our sin separates us from the LORD.  He has already paid the price for our salvation.  "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.  Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”  (James 4:8)