'Nearer' in the Bible

So it happened, when Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, even though it was nearer; for God said, “The people might change their minds when they see war [that is, that there will be war], and return to Egypt.”

It is true that I am your close relative and redeemer; however, there is a relative closer [to you] than I.

You are near, O Lord,And all Your commandments are truth.

Do this, knowing that this is a critical time. It is already the hour for you to awaken from your sleep [of spiritual complacency]; for our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed [in Christ].