March 23, 2025

Since “we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus” to draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith (Hebrews 10:19-22), the question is, how should we draw near?

Isaiah writes, “Then the Lord said, ‘Because this people draw near with their words and honor Me with their lip service, but they remove their hearts far from Me, and their reverence for Me consists of tradition learned by rote…’” (Isaiah 29:13).

Jesus quotes this passage to the Jewish leaders of His day, telling them their worship is, at best, hypocritical. Why? Because in their worship, they exchanged the commandments of God “for the sake of your traditions” by “teaching as doctrines the precepts of men” (Matthew 15:9).

Those who draw near to God to worship Him by faith in Jesus Christ are to love Him—with all their heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37). This is the worship God longs for: a genuine, heartfelt faith filled with gratitude that rises above mere forms or rituals.

The Apostle John beautifully reminds us, “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome” (1 John 5:3). What an uplifting truth! When we approach God with love and faith, obedience transforms into a joy, not a burden. So let us draw near to God boldly through faith in Christ, trusting that He will pour His love into our hearts by His Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). As we receive His boundless love, may we respond with wholehearted devotion to Him and His Son, our Savior.

Have a blessed Lord’s Day.