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NOT A HEART FAR FROM GOD (II)
LORD’S DAY, JUNE 20
Matthew 15:1-9

Psalm 73:21-28

 

“…in vain they do

worship me…”

 

NOT A HEART FAR FROM GOD (II)
 
The consequences of such a heart are very serious. Where hearts are  far from God, there is no genuine worship ‒ whatever passes under the name of “worship,” God does not accept. Where hearts are far from God, the truth of biblical doctrine is quickly corrupted ‒ it is replaced by the artifice and invention of man. “But in vain they do worship me, teaching  for doctrines the commandments of men” (Matt 15:9).
 
What is it then that draws the heart to God? Clearly it is not “the tradition of the elders” (v 2), for this did the Pharisees no good. However well-meaning, however nobly conceived, no man-made ritual or ceremony can bring us close to God. Faith cannot lay hold of these things, because they are not of God! Nor do all the grand buildings of Christendom by themselves avail anything; nor all the bright lights and expensive equipment found in modern churches. Yes, in a grand cathedral the eyes may be drawn upward to the ceiling, but is the heart drawn to God by architecture? Yes, in a contemporary “worship” concert the emotions may be powerfully moved, but is the heart drawn to God by rhythm? What can draw our hearts to God but His Word, and His Spirit?
 
Dear reader, know that where there is no faithful preaching of God’s Word, and no fervent prayer for His Spirit, hearts cannot truly be blessed. If we would have hearts near to God, we must attend upon the means of grace that He Himself has provided. In the words of Wesley, “Come Holy Ghost, our hearts inspire, let us thine influence prove; source of the old prophetic fire, fountain of life and love. Come, Holy Ghost, for, moved by thee, thy prophets wrote and spoke: unlock the truth, thyself the key, unseal the sacred book.”
 
THOUGHT: “For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee. But it is good for me to draw near to God.” (Ps 73:27-28)
PRAYER: “God, through Himself, we then shall know, if Thou within us shine; and sound, with all Thy saints below, the depths of love divine.” (Wesley)

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