Getting Close to the Lord

James 4:8-17

Intro.: Do we want to be closer to God. Do we want to live more godly? Do we want to be where He wants us with our lives?

 

First let us look at some …

  1. Facts and observations:
    1. We are as close as we want to be. (Draw nigh)
    2. We stay as close as we want to stay.
    3. We can get closer!!!
    4. We are meant to be closer (God’s desire for us).
    5. We can gain great gladness if we move towards Him and His ways.
  2. Steps involved in getting closer:
    1. Sense the need for closeness.
    2. Savor closeness.(you must like it)
    3. Seek out closeness. (We can't expect it to sneak up on us)
    4. Search out harmful detours in your life that hamper your walk
    5. Snuff out interfering items that are imbedded in your life.
    6. Sever harmful ties with the world that will haunt our life. 
  3. Considerations about getting closer:
    1. There may be an expense involved!…are you willing to pay the cost?
    2. There may be more responsibility (to whom much is given - or is it already required?)

      3. Luke 12:48 …For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.

    3. Many may choose to talk or bad-mouth you for your obedience. - Just remember they hated Christ first!
    4. Many may choose to ignore your service. Are we in this for lip service? Or pat on the backs?
    5. Many may choose to be jealous of your closeness.
    6. Closeness begats closeness - where do you stop????????

 

Conclusion: We must want to get closer for God's sake. Not for financial gain, etc. We must be determined to do this even in the face of opposition or discouragement.

 

083098am Gary Marcum