Christian Living

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“Near to the Heart of God”

Arwyn D. Reish- February, 2005

The Scriptures direct the saint “to draw nigh to God and He will draw nigh to you” (James 4:8). How does the child of God claim closeness to Him? Is there some formula to maintain a close walk with God? There are certain spiritual exercises which will cause the saint to walk closely to God.

A. “Delight thyself in the Lord.”

The song writer wrote, “All that thrills my soul is Jesus.” The believer in Christ must rejoice in Him and His work. Christ must remain fresh in the emotion of the believer.

B. Mediate on God and His Word.

The mind must constantly rehearse the Person of Christ and the Scriptures. Ponder and review Christ’s redemption, God’s creation, and His delivering power.

C. Pray without ceasing.

Maintain an immediate response to the leading of the Holy Spirit and special burden of the heart. Stay in touch with God and rehearse requests of the brethren. Don’t allow the heart to grow cold and distant from the unction of the Holy Spirit.

D. Crucify the flesh.

Reckon the sin nature to be dead unto sin. Don’t allow the devil to have any place in your life. Claim the power of the blood over sin. Refuse Satan’s temptation and torment over sin.

E. Repudiate friendship with the world.

Choose companions and acquaintances that love Jesus Christ. Keep yourself from carnal and worldly activities. Follow righteous individuals in their pursuit of God.

F. Practice kindness and patience.

Speak softly and be gracious to all men. Enrich one’s speech with a righteous attitude and refrain from uncontrolled anger. Speak with courtesy and listen to those who have problems with their own temperament.

G. Learn to sacrifice.

Practice a liberal desire to share and reject a spirit of greed and envy. Set your heart on sharing life and its benefits with your fellow man.

Do everything in your power to keep the cup clean both on the inside and the outside. Listen carefully to God and learn to be slow to speak and swift to hear. Maintain a cheerful spirit and smile with a pleasant countenance.

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