“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
This verse is such an encouragement. Even though it ends with a pretty strong conviction, the overarching theme is one of encouragement. James is telling us that if we try to come closer to God, he will also come closer to us. How amazing is that! In times where we’re far from God, it can seem like such a difficult task to return to him. While it certainly can be difficult, it’s always easier once you make the first step, when you turn back and start walking toward him. Any effort that you make, he will make too, plus more.
He loves us so much, and wants a relationship with us so badly that he is willing to move toward us even in our darkest moments, just as long as we’re moving toward him as well.
The verse says that we do this by repenting, washing our hands of the sins of our past and starting over fresh. We do that by the blood of Jesus. Only through his sacrifice can we truly wash our hands of our sin and purify our hearts. But if we believe in him, then we have forgiveness for our sins. If we turn to him, he will do all the work. All we need to do is come near. What an incredible blessing to have a God that loves us that much.
Always remember that wherever you are, wherever you’ve been, and wherever you’re going, all you have to do is turn to him, and he’ll turn toward you. Draw near to him, and he’ll draw near to you. He won’t leave you alone. He won’t let you down. He will pull you close and hold you tight. He wants you, he loves you, and he would even give up his own son for you. In fact, he did.
Prayer:
Father,
Help me to take steps nearer to you all the time. Come near to me and draw me to yourself. I want to be closer and closer all the time. Forgive me of my sins and allow me to enter your presence by the blood of Christ.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.
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