‘No one ever comes very close to God and remains proud.’ – Alan Nelson
‘Draw near,’ is the invitation James tells us is always met with God, in turn, drawing near (4:8). As followers of Christ we can draw near with confidence (Heb 4:16). But make no mistake this confidence is not in our own righteousness, but in the righteousness of Christ (2 Cor 5:21).
As we draw near we find grace and mercy, yet still fall down as though dead (Heb 4:16, Rev 1:17). Because no one ever draws near to God and remains proud. But do not be afraid – His nearness is your good (Ps 73:28).
‘When I saw Him, I fell at His feet as though dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying, ‘Fear not, I am the First and the Last, and the Living One. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.’ – Revelation 1:17
Lord, You know the proud from afar, but regard the lowly. Help us draw near with full confidence in the completed work of Christ. Thank you for being Emmanuel, the God who is with us. We are humbled and grateful, in Christ name, amen.
Draw near,
AB