James 4:8 New International Version (NIV)
8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
This is one of my many favorite ‘go to’ verses in the Bible. It reminds me of the relationship I can have with God. He always draws near to me when I deal with my sin. He wants to have complete control of our lives. He is always willing to cleanse me and forgive me.
It is like Psalm 51 when David had committed sin with Bathsheba. He asked God for mercy, and to blot out the stain of sin. David’s whole body had been dragged down by his sin. His eyes, mind, ears, bones, heart, and spirit had been affected. David wanted the joy of the Lord to return to his soul.
Have you ever felt that distance from God? Was it like a barrier or a reef? Most of the time it is sin in our lives that creates the separation from God. It is only when we seek God in humility and appeal for his grace and mercy are we renewed with the Father.
David realized God did not want his sacrifice. He wanted David’s broken heart. He wanted his recognition of his sin. God wanted to raise him up again. David bought God his broken heart and that was the worthy sacrifice God wanted.
There are times in my life when I bring Jesus my brokenness. I confess my sins, and Christ raises me back up. He blots away my sin as far from the east is to the west. When I do that, I am ready to have God draw near to me. He calls his son. He love me and tells me he has a plan and a future for my life. He calls me to come close.
How about you today? Are you ready to draw near? He is waiting for you.
Strength and Courage
Michael
