Drawing Near to God

Drawing Near to God In a hectic and busy world, many people struggle to consciously maintain an awareness of God in their daily lives. The scripture exhorts us to draw near to God but assures us He will respond by drawing near to us. (James 4:7) This is a wonderful comforting promise. We must first realize, as believers in Christ, God dwells in us by the Holy Spirit, which He has given us. Christ is in us, the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27). So, why are we not always aware of The Father’s presence? Christ’s presence? The Holy Spirit’s presence? More than likely, it has something to do with our attention, focus, expectation, values, and affection. Jesus said, “where you treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21) That speaks of what we truly value in life. The Psalmist David’s constant and overwhelming desire was to be in the Lord’s presence. One thing I have desired of the LORD, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD, And to inquire in His temple. Psalm 27:4 Our desire, values, and focus go hand in hand. Our desire will usually be our focus in life. If we desire and value sports, our focus will be on sports. If we desire and value food, our focus will on food. If we desire and value the things of God, our focus will be there as well. For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Romans 8:5-6 God has designed our relationship with Him to greatly be subject to our response to His Word, His Spirit, His invitation. He never forces us to do anything, but patiently waits for our obedience, and willingness to seek Him. Jesus clearly pointed out the Father’s great desire for eager worshippers who would seek Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24). He is not making anyone worship Him now. The day will come when every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God (Romans 14:11). He now looks for those that will intentionally do so of their own volition. It is so wonderful to know the Father is always waiting for us to draw near, in good times, and bad times, in victories or failures, in tribulation or peace and quietness, He waits for our attention to turn to Him. Such great humility on His part to wait for His creation to come to Him with honor and reverence. He who created the heavens and earth, and all that is within them, waits for us to respond to His open invitation to come and draw near, worship, fellowship, linger, and listen. What a Mighty God we serve! What a loving Father! What a merciful Creator! Learn to continually draw near to Him. He longs for your presence at His Throne. He longs to respond to your loving worship with gentle breezes of heavenly glory and blessings that you will never experience apart from turning your heart, attention, and affection to Him. He always rewards those who diligently seek Him. But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Hebrews 11:6 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. 2 Chronicles 16:9 In our last post, we discussed the function of New Testament priests, and how worship and praise are integral parts of our calling and privilege. Drawing near to God as His children, priests, servants, and living temples should be our daily longing and joy. It should not be a drudgery or “have to” type duty. He is worthy of more praise than we can ever render. He is more worthy of all the honor we can ever bestow upon Him and our Savior Jesus Christ. Draw near to Him in these tumultuous times. Stay near Him. Talk with Him throughout the day, not just in your special time of morning or evening prayer. If you draw near to Him, turn your attention to Him, He will be right there, receiving your worship, and inhabiting your praise. You will experience a little taste of heaven on earth in His glorious presence. You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalms 16:11 New subject next time. Until then, may God our Heavenly Father richly bless and keep you! James Brown CST 03/12/2023