Welcome back to "From Glory to Glory: Seven Keys to the Uncommon Spiritual Life." We are now halfway through the e-course, and today, we explore the fourth key: Drawing Near to God. Let's begin with the key scripture from James 4:5-10: "Or do you think that the scripture says in vain, 'The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously'? But He gives more grace. Therefore He says, 'God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.' Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament, and mourn, and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up." Ephesians 2:13 also reminds us: "But now in Christ Jesus, you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ." Key Insights: The Call to Draw Near: Drawing near to God is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life. It is a response to God's initial draw through Jesus Christ, who reconciled us to God and brought us near by His blood. Renewing Intimacy: As life progresses, distractions and concerns can lead to spiritual apathy. However, every new season requires a fresh drawing near to God, seeking His presence, and renewing our intimacy with Him. Humble Submission: Humility is key in drawing near to God. James emphasizes the need to submit to God, resist the devil, and cleanse our hearts and hands. This humility allows us to receive more grace and deeper fellowship with God. Practical Application: Daily Renewal: Just as the Israelites gathered fresh manna daily, we must seek God daily, drawing near to Him through prayer and His Word. Overcoming Pride and Double-Mindedness: Pride and double-mindedness can hinder our closeness with God. Regular repentance and humility are essential to maintaining a vibrant relationship with Him. Persistent Pursuit: In every season, make it a practice to draw near to God, knowing that He will draw near to you. This involves setting aside distractions and focusing on His presence. Reflection Questions: Are there moments where you feel resisted by the Lord? If so, identify and repent of any pride or double-mindedness. What specific areas in your life need repentance to draw nearer to God? Have you strayed from God's grace and need to adjust your course by depending more on Him and embracing humility? Are you in a season of drawing near, or is God calling you to a greater glory? What are you learning with Him at this time? Declaration and Prayer Declare this over your life: "I have a deep longing to draw near to the heart of God, to dwell in the shelter of His presence, and abide in the shadow of His wings. With sincerity of heart and full assurance of faith, I approach the throne of grace, knowing that as I draw near to God, He will draw near to me. I confess that intimacy with my Heavenly Father is my highest priority and greatest joy, for in His presence I find fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore. I declare that as I draw near to God, He reveals Himself to me in ever-deepening ways, unveiling the beauty of His character and the riches of His love. I am transformed in His presence, renewed in my mind, and strengthened in my spirit. Today, I draw near to God, seeking His face, listening to His voice, and resting in His love." Say this prayer: "Lord, I long to draw near to You with a sincere heart and full assurance of faith. Thank You for the promise that as I draw near to You, You will draw near to me. Help me to prioritize my relationship with You above all else and to cultivate intimacy with You through prayer, worship, and meditation on Your Word. May my heart continually turn towards You, seeking Your face and Your will in all things. In Jesus' name, Amen." Thank you for being a part of our e-course. This e-course is 100% free, thanks to the generous support of our friends and partners. Would you consider giving a one-time donation or becoming a monthly ministry partner to help us continue providing free e-courses and e-books? Visit Father's Glory for more information on events, live sessions, and donations. Thank you and God bless you. TO PARTNER AND OR DONATE TEXT GLORY TO 801801 (FOR USA & CANADA) OR VISIT: https://FATHERSGLORY.ORG PAYPAL PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/fathersgloryintl CASHAPP https://cash.app/$fathersglory
