Calendar

DRAW NEAR TO GOD
MONDAY, DECEMBER 5
James 4:8

Psalm 145:17-19

 

“The LORD is nigh
unto all them that call upon him,

to all that call upon him in truth.”

 

DRAW NEAR TO GOD
 
“Draw nigh to God” (James 4:8) is now James’ command to his readers. The word “draw nigh” is in the imperative. To come before the presence of God, they need to know what to do to be acceptable to God. James has already mentioned the sins of professing believers in his time. They need to be cleansed and purified as they approach the Holy God.
 
Cleanse your hands: The word “cleanse” is a command which gives the idea of a thorough cleansing for sacred use, such as washing vessels for holy purposes. Figuratively, it is associated with ritual cleansing, implying moral purity. God makes us acceptable by cleansing us. Therefore, it is a command for all who have been made filthy by sins. James here addresses all those alienated from God because of their doubts or because of the transgressions of the wicked.
 
Purify your hearts: The word “purify,” also a command, is synonymous with cleansing. It is a step further from the order “to cleanse.” We must not be satisfied with a mere external reformation and putting away of our outward transgressions. No amount of exterior rehabilitation is enough if there is no inward transformation. There must be a cleansing that reaches the heart and a purifying that renews our affections. The Lord knows that nothing can be correct if the heart is wrong.
 
The Lord commands us to be near Him. It is because He alone can cleanse and purify us. If we prefer to remain at a distance because we still want to cling to our sins, there is no hope that we can draw near to Him. If we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us. He is ever ready to cleanse and purify us. Read what Jesus said in John 6:37.
 
Dear reader, are you not seeking the spiritual cleansing and purifying of your heart and mind? We can never hope for God’s favour if we continue to indulge in our sinful lusts and doubts about God.
 
THOUGHT: Am I drawing near to God?
PRAYER: Father, I thank Thee for Thy promise that when I draw near to Thee, Thou in Thy mercy and grace will draw near to me.

Search