GOD DESIRES WE DRAW NEAR TO HIM! By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: “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, NKJV)
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Introduction
The heartbeat of God’s message to His people has always been a call to draw near to Him. In every season, He desires His people to live in obedience, righteousness, and purity, walking in His way and reflecting His holiness. Yet, many who claim to love Him walk far from Him, chasing after other gods and worldly desires. This message challenges us to examine our relationship with God and to make it our utmost priority to seek Him wholeheartedly. It is a clarion call to abandon sin, hypocrisy, and worldliness, and instead pursue the righteousness and truth that only God provides.
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God’s Desire for His People
God longs for His people to be near Him, to walk in obedience, and to live uprightly. “I have called thee to walk circumspectly, I have called thee to walk in obedience, and I have called thee to be well-pleasing unto me.” The world would be transformed if those who claim to follow God genuinely lived out their faith. Sadly, many have chosen the path of worldliness and rebellion. “If you love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15)
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The Consequences of Walking Afar from God
Those who live in hypocrisy and disobedience are far from God. They face the consequences of their rebellion. “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23) God’s wrath is revealed against those who claim to serve Him yet walk in sin and worldliness. Hypocritical prayers and self-serving ambitions grieve His heart. “These people draw near to Me with their mouth and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me.” (Matthew 15:8)
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The Danger of Hypocrisy
Religious pretense is an affront to God. Many speak with eloquence and appear righteous outwardly, but their hearts are consumed with pride and lust. God will bring such pretenders to account. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness.” (Matthew 23:27)
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God’s Call to True Worship
God desires worship that is pure and undefiled. True worship involves drawing near to God, repenting of sin, and walking in holiness. “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” (John 4:24) We are called to reject the world and its sinful desires and to seek God above all.
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Living in the Fear of the Lord
The fear of the Lord leads to life and keeps us from the snares of death. Instead of fearing men or circumstances, we are to trust in God and remain steadfast in Him. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)
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The Privilege of Drawing Near to God
It is a profound privilege to be invited into God’s presence. When we draw near to Him, we partake of His mercy, truth, and peace. He provides for our needs and strengthens us in His righteousness. “The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth.” (Psalm 145:18)
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The Danger of Approving Sin
Approving of sin is a grave error. To condone what God has forbidden is to partake in it. “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14) As God’s people, we must stand against sin and call others to repentance.
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Summary
God’s desire is for His people to draw near to Him in purity and truth. He abhors hypocrisy and rebellion but delights in those who seek Him sincerely. Living near to God is a life of privilege, peace, and righteousness. Those who walk far from Him face destruction and wrath, but those who remain faithful are uplifted by His mercy and grace.
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Conclusion
Let us heed God’s call to draw near to Him. It is a call to holiness, truth, and unwavering faith. By rejecting sin and living in obedience, we honor God and reflect His light in a dark world. The closer we draw to Him, the more we experience His transformative power and abundant life.
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Call to Action
Examine your heart today. Are you truly near to God, or have you allowed sin and worldliness to create a distance? Repent, seek His face, and commit to walking in His ways. Let your life be a testimony of God’s grace and power.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Be encouraged to draw near to God daily. He desires to walk with you, guide you, and fill your life with His peace. As you seek Him, trust that He will never leave you nor forsake you. “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13)
