How can we ensure our hearts are prepared when approaching God, per Exodus 19:21? The Call to Reverent Preparation “Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Go down and warn the people not to break through to see the LORD, lest many of them perish.’” (Exodus 19:21) The scene at Sinai underscores that God’s holiness is literal, not symbolic, and that unprepared hearts are in real danger. Because Scripture is accurate in every detail, the warning still speaks to anyone who wishes to draw near to Him today. Why God Demands Prepared Hearts • God’s holiness is consuming: “For our God is a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:29). • Unprepared approach leads to judgment: the Israelites would “perish” if they crossed the boundary. • His holiness does not change; therefore, our preparation cannot be casual. Practical Steps for Heart Preparation 1. Approach with holy fear • Acknowledge who He is before speaking a word. • Hebrews 12:28: “...worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” 2. Pursue cleansing through confession • 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” • James 4:8: “Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” 3. Cultivate purity in motive and action • Psalm 24:3-4: “Who may ascend the hill of the LORD?... He who has clean hands and a pure heart.” • Guard thoughts, habits, and relationships so they align with God’s standards. 4. Embrace obedience before devotion • Sinai’s boundary lines were clear; obedience was non-negotiable. • John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” 5. Offer yourself wholly • Romans 12:1: “Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.” • Yield plans, desires, and schedules to Him each day. 6. Enter with humility and gratitude • Psalm 95:2: “Let us enter His presence with thanksgiving.” • Gratitude softens the heart and guards against entitlement. 7. Be still and listen • Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” • Silence allows His Spirit to search and shape the inner life. Living the Pattern Daily • Start the morning with confession and Scripture before any other voice. • Maintain short accounts with God—repent the moment the Spirit convicts. • Schedule moments of stillness throughout the day to realign your heart. • Gather with other believers who revere God’s holiness; corporate worship reinforces personal discipline. • End each day reviewing thoughts, words, and actions under the light of His Word. The same God who warned Israel at Sinai invites us near through Christ, yet His holiness remains unchanged. Taking these steps ensures our hearts are prepared, so our approach brings delight to the Father rather than danger to ourselves. |
    |