Getting Closer to God

Main Verse: Jam. 4:8

Category: Consecration

INTRO

Getting closer opens your eyes to your sinfulness (Isa 6:5)

It will provoke persecution (2 Tim 3:12)

The world will hate you (Jn 15:19)

This is the cross Jesus invited you to take, Are you ready?

I. DRAW NEAR TO GOD (He's waiting for you)

1. You make the first move:

a. Zacchaeus (Lk 19:1-5)

b. Woman with issue of blood (Lk 8:43-48)

c. Sinful woman took the initiative (Lk 7:37-38)

d. It’s your business to seek, not Gods (Isa 55:6)

II. CLEANSE YOUR SINS

1. Forsake your sinful practices (Isa. 55:7)

2. Make provision to stay out of sin (Acts 19:18-20)

3. Burn your bridges (1 Kings 19:21)

4. Leave your old nets (life) behind (Mat 4:19-20)

III. ARE YOU WILLING?

1. If you are willing (Isa 1:18-19)

2. Do not harden your heart (Heb 3:7-8)

IV. NO GUARANTEE HE WILL CALL AGAIN

1. It is God who leads to repentance (Rom 2:4)

2. There is a point of rejection (Pro 1:28-33)

a. Esau (Heb 12:17)

3. A point where God will ignore you (1 Sam 8:18)

4. Samson thought God was still there (Jdg 16:20)

CONC.

Let us make a decision today to remove all hindrances and resolve to get closer to God. No more excuses. Cleanse your sins and purify your hears.