Draw Near Unto God

Front Page 23.10

 

The Bible says, “Draw near unto God, and He will draw near unto you.” (James 4:8). We live in an age of cynicism, but no one has to live out their lives as a cynic. You may have heard the old saying, “You only go around once in life…” Well, God promises those who live faithfully in this life a second life, eternal in nature, in an unspoiled place of light, joy and beauty. Exciting and vibrant; a life that will never end nor ever grow old. 

The human race has often been very foolish with the wisdom and abilities God has given us. Our technology has grown, but with every advance which has so much potential for good also comes the potential for evil. Despite these amazing advances, we still have war, pollution, crime, hatred, disease and death. Must we sit back and wait for inevitable destruction? No! There is a place of refuge for those who “draw near unto God.” 

Paul explained, “He is not far from each one of us.” (Acts 17:27). This is because He is not limited to space and time as we are. He pervades this universe, but not only this universe. He dwells beyond it as well in eternity. He is the great I Am. We have extreme difficulty comprehending what existence outside of space and time would be like. Perhaps it is impossible for us to grasp it since we are finite beings and our experience does not include that; at least not yet.   

In God we live and move and have our very being. We draw near to Him by faith as we turn our lives and eternities over to His care. This trust we place in God shows itself in our obedience to His will. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15). One simply cannot draw near unto God without reverently obeying His word. But for those who choose to live by faith, it is as the Psalmist once said, “Even though earth, mountains and sea should quake, God is our refuge and strength… therefore we shall not fear.” (See Psalm 46:1-7).