There's a Barrier Between God and Us

But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.
- Isaiah 59:2 (KJV)

Because or sin we are no longer able to come directly to God. There's a barrier between God and us.

When we repent, God can draw closer.

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
- James 4:8 (KJV)