How can we apply the call to "draw near to her God" today? Setting the Scene “Woe to the city of oppressors, rebellious and defiled! She heeded no voice, she accepted no correction. She did not trust in the LORD; she did not draw near to her God.” (Zephaniah 3:1–2) Zephaniah exposed Jerusalem’s refusal to come close to the LORD. The call to “draw near” still stands, inviting every believer today to move from distance to intimacy with the living God. What Kept Them Far Away • Ignoring God’s voice • Rejecting correction • Lacking trust • Choosing rebellion over obedience These same patterns distance hearts now, yet Scripture offers a clear path back into fellowship. The New-Covenant Invitation Hebrews 10:22: “Let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith.” James 4:8: “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” Because Christ’s blood opens the way (Hebrews 10:19), every believer can respond immediately and confidently. Practical Ways to Draw Near Today 1. Listen Intently to His Word • Daily, unhurried reading of Scripture. • Memorize and meditate on passages; let truth reshape thinking (Psalm 119:11). 2. Welcome Loving Correction • Invite the Spirit’s conviction (John 16:8). • Respond quickly with confession and repentance (1 John 1:9). 3. Trust the LORD Completely • Place confidence in His character and promises (Proverbs 3:5–6). • Reject self-reliance; embrace childlike dependence (Matthew 18:3). 4. Worship with Wholehearted Affection • Personal praise: sing, speak, or write out adoration (Psalm 95:1–2). • Corporate worship: prioritize gathering with believers (Hebrews 10:25). 5. Cultivate Continual Prayer • Ongoing conversation—gratitude, intercession, lament, joy (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Set aside focused times of silence to listen (Psalm 46:10). 6. Walk in Practical Obedience • Apply what Scripture reveals without delay (John 14:15). • Serve others sacrificially, mirroring Christ’s love (Galatians 5:13). 7. Remain in Gospel Hope • Remember Christ’s finished work that grants access (Ephesians 2:13). • Look forward to the day every barrier is removed forever (Revelation 21:3). Encouragement for the Journey “As for me, it is good to draw near to God.” (Psalm 73:28) Each deliberate step—hearing, trusting, repenting, worshiping—moves the heart closer to the One who eagerly welcomes His people. |
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