Verse: Hebrews 10:19-22
19 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.

Devotion
I read a quote from a pastor that said “proximity breeds empathy, but distance breeds suspicion.” He meant it in terms of human relationships of course, but I wonder if it’s also true of our relationship with God?

This verse exhorts us to “draw near to God with a sincere heart.” The closer we are to God, the more we can become transformed by who he is. His love and mercy rub off on us. His character refines us. His hope and power inspire us.  2 Corinthians 3:18 tells us that as we behold him with no masks of pride, guilt, shame or whatever, but with “unveiled faces”, that we are “transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory.”

As we get further away though, I wonder if “distance breeds suspicion.” Have you noticed that when we start to drift from God, things get worse in our relationship with him, not better? I know that sounds so simplistic to say, but I find it to be so true. The further from him I am, the more I blame him for stuff, the more I question his motives, the more I doubt him, and the less likely I am to ask him for guidance, strength, and help.

However, the same is also true about when I am drawing near to him. I find that I think of him more often. I see his hand working in my life in ways I would normally have missed. I hear his voice. I feel hopeful and strengthened—and not because my circumstances are any different, but just because I’ve been with him. Life has more meaning, relationships are more fulfilling, decisions become less burdensome, and I feel more supported and loved. All because I have chosen proximity with God over distance from him.

I wonder how this verse—”let us draw near to God with a sincere heart”—hits you today? I wonder how God would speak to you through those words? Take a moment and allow the Spirit to draw you closer and stir up your desire for more of God in your life.

Prayer
I am not satisfied God. I need more of you in my life. Draw me closer to you I pray, as I draw closer to you.

Author: Christian Dunn