Approaching God

James tells us God draws near when we move toward Him (James 4:8). Too often I overlooked the second half of the verse in my approach to God: "Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded".

Hebrews 11:6 says for those who come to God must believe He is and He is the rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. And in Psalms 24:3-4 asks who can ascend to the hill of the Lord, who can stand in His holy place? The response in verse 4 says, those who have clean hands and a pure heart.

So I must approach God in faith and in purity. It has taken some years to learn my approach can not be with an attitude of a "good boy" performance (I'll draw near today since I was good or did good things) or in a dry religious ritual (out of obligation). I must simply trust God. In drawing near to God, He must have full access to my heart. Should there be any impurity or defilement, I must confess and repent. God knows the motive of the heart, more so than I know of my own intentions.

Recently, the Lord caused me to realize one of the many rewards of approaching Him. Not only does it mean experiencing the presence of God in a more fuller way, which deepens intimacy but it intimidates the Enemy. In His presence there is fullness of joy where no devil, sickness, pain or sadness can dwell. By drawing near to God the things of this world which moments ago was so urgent all but fade away and the fullness of God's Spirit envelopes me.

Let's draw near in reverence and confidence and watch God perform His word!