" . . . it is good for me to draw near to God." Psalm 73:28
In justification God first stoops down to us and draws us with cords of love and the power of His irresistible grace; but in sanctification we must make the initial move and seek to have intimate fellowship with Him. Asaph in Psalm 73 had experienced the joy and true happiness that results from such nearness to God. James, in his epistle, tells us that if we want to feel God's presence we must first "draw nigh" to Him (James 4:8). Too many Christians wait passively for God to fill them with joy, victory, and spiritual zeal they fail to recognize that such intimate blessings are impossible unless they - by Bible study, prayer, witnessing, and fellowship with other Christians - advance into the light and warmth of the Lord's most intimate presence. Because we as Christians often are so blind to this fact, God sometimes has to encourage us to come closer to Him through pressing trial and encumbering need. How much better if true gratitude and love inspires our hearts to seek His warming embrace! But whatever the reasons for our drawing near - our slightest movement Godward delights His heart and brings an instantaneous response and increased fellowship.
You perhaps may recall the story of the little fellow who through fear was prompted to nestle very close to his father as they were riding along on a strange and dark road. The indulgent father, thinking the child was about to ask for some favor, inquired, "Out with it, what do you want?" "Nothing, Father, I just want to be near you," said the child with a soulful look. The father's heart was gladdened, and the fellowship between the two was made more precious. So, too, the Father in Heaven rejoices when, because of our love, we seek to embrace Him in a warmer fellowship. Indeed, "The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him . . . in truth" (Psalm 145:18).
"Bread For Each Day"
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