March 12, 2024 – Draw Near
Read: : James 4:1-8 Draw Near to God
Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.
Cleanse your hands, you sinners,
and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
(James 4:8, ESV)
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to find ourselves distanced from the source of our strength and peace — God. James reminds us of a profound truth: when we draw near to God, He, in turn, draws near to us.
However, this closeness requires a response from us – to cleanse our hands, purify our hearts, and examine ourselves to rid our lives of anything in thought or deed that hinders our connection with God. Repentance is key to a genuine and heartfelt drawing near. We cannot divide our hearts and loyalty between God and the world. Our choice is not both/and; it’s either/or.
As we draw near to God in sincerity and humility, He not only forgives but transforms us. The closeness we experience with God reshapes our perspectives, aligns our hearts with His, and empowers us to live in accordance with His will. In drawing near to God, we discover a depth of relationship that surpasses anything the world has to offer.
Be Still and Reflect: Reflect on the daily choices you make in thought and deed. Are there aspects of your life that hinder your connection with God? What steps can you take for a more genuine drawing near to God?
Pray: Heavenly Father, amid life’s distractions, help me to heed the words of James. Open my heart to recognizing the hindrances that distance me from You. Grant me the strength to turn away from anything that hinders our connection. And create in me a pure heart and a right spirit aligned with Yours. Lead me in a genuine repentance and undivided loyalty that draws me closer to Your transformative love. In You only will I discover the depth of relationship I long for beyond what the world can offer. In the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, Amen.
By His Grace,
Gloria