Here we are again talking about the good things of our Lord. Today’s service was a good time of worship and praise. Pastor’s message on forgiveness was insightful. But it’s during the time when we choose to enter into His presence that things can and often do change. I am one who wants nothing more than to do God’s will. To be obedient to Him. So, when He talks to me during service I tend to listen. Unfortunately I’m not always that way. When it’s any other day I probably have my mind on other things. He wants to talk to me, I’m just listening or putting myself into a position to listen to Him. And today He gave me words for 2 different people. Both messages had to do with pushing into a closer time with Him.

In Malachi 3:7 the Lord says to return to Him and He will return to you. We need to take the first steps. We have to show our desire for a closer walk with him. Remember he doesn’t go where He is not welcome. He is never far away, but He will not force Himself upon us. That is why we need to draw closer to Him. Show the initiative. How often do we act like we have done enough and now its God’s turn to do something. When in reality we have almost nothing and want it all done for us. In the first part of this blog I mentioned that I don’t always listen to Him. Then there are days like today when I do and He wants something of me that I just don’t want to do. It’s these times when He pulls out this big 2×4 and hits me with it. Well, at least in a spiritual sense. See I’ve “dug my heals in” on a particular matter and didn’t want to budge from it. This was the area that God decided I needed to change today. And wanting to be obedient to Him I started to change my ways. Why? I want a closer walk with Him. If I want to draw closer to Him I need to get out of my own way. These walls I’ve put up need to come down. I also want and need Him to heal me. Of some pain I have  in my right hip all the way down to my right shins. But if there is disobedience how can I expect to receive healing when I won’t receive what He wants of me.

One part of this is that I know better than to tell God no. For He said in His Word that to whom much is given, much is required. A principle of this is that when you press in and get closer to Him you will receive more. More of Him and More blessing in your life among other things. God wants to give to us. Why don’t we just put ourselves in a position to receive these things and blessings. And when it is the proper time you will have a testimony to share that can encourage those around you to get closer to Him. So, draw closer to Him. You have a lot riding on it.

Be blessed, Ken