Come close to God and He will come close to you. [Recognize that you are] sinners, get your soiled hands clean; [realize that you have been disloyal] wavering individuals with divided interests, and purify your hearts [of your spiritual adultery].
James 4:8 AMPC
In our journey towards spiritual growth, we are called to approach God with open hearts. Meanwhile, to desire God’s presence is to be of clean hands and a pure heart. However, we have realized that man cannot make his corrupt heart pure on his own. But there is a means by which the heart can be made pure. It is summarize thus: recognize that you are a sinner with unclean hands and an impure heart, draw near to God in repentance and He will reciprocates with forgiveness, and give you a new heart.
As individuals, we must recognize our inherent flaws and sinful nature, we must acknowledge our need for God’s forgiveness and cleansing. It is important to note that the unclean works of the hands are a reflection of the condition of the heart. However, our hands, soiled by the stains of our transgressions, can be purified through genuine repentance and seeking God’s grace. Meanwhile, we often find ourselves torn between worldly distractions and spiritual pursuits. Therefore, to draw near to God, we must recognize this internal struggle and commit ourselves to wholehearted devotion.
So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him make himself scarce. Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it’s the only way you’ll get on your feet.
James 4:7-10 MSG
So, drawing near to God requires a genuine desire for change. As we actively pursue spiritual growth, we will witness the transformative power of God’s love and grace in our lives. However, we must not forget that it is God who gives us new birth, and changes the human heart. He removes the stony heart, gives a new heart and a new spirit. But you must first get down on your knees before Jesus, for it is the only way you’ll get on your feet to follow Him. When we take the step to draw close to God, He reciprocates by drawing near to us.
Jesus is the only way to the Father (John 14:6). He is the only way you can draw near to God. God sent Jesus to be the mediator between God and man. Receiving Jesus into your life is the first step to getting closer to the Lord. The first step to having your corrupted heart purified. Without Jesus, there is no access to God. The Bible tells us that God sent His only son to make a way for us.
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6 NIV
Remember, as you draw near to God, He will draw near to you, enveloping you in His boundless love and grace. Heed this call to come.
Do not be surprised that I have told you, ‘You must be born again [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, sanctified].’
John 3:7 AMP
