Closer Walk with Thee

“Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” James 4:8 NIV

The song, closer walk with thee, has been performed and recorded by many artists. Performed as either an instrumental or vocal. Did you know that it is one of the most frequently played song in traditional New Orleans jazz funerals?  The song was recorded in 1941. Notable recordings of the song have been performed by: Rosetta Tharpe, Mahalia Jackson, LaVern Baker, Louis Armstrong, Little Richard, Gladys Knight & The Pips, Ike & Tina Turner, Albertina Walker, and many more.

Today’s lesson comes from the book of James. He was the son of Mary and Joseph and brother of Jesus. He describes himself as “a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.” His letters deal more with Christian ethics and its theme is the outworking of faith. He writes about the roots of our quarrels, conflicts, and wrong motives. The scripture says, God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.

James reminds us that when we come near to God, He will respond with action by moving closer to us. This is nothing but God’s grace and mercy as he steps in our direction. It is a reminder of the importance of a more intimate and personal relationship with the Good Shepherd, who alone is our guiding Compass, and he wants to show us how much he loves us. Here are a few things to think about as you walk closer with God:

*Read his Word daily, we must have our spiritual vitamins that provide us with nourishment. Through God’s Word is how we speak life into our lives.

Friends, whether it’s through spoken words or silent meditation, prayer is our private conversations with God about our EVERYTHING. Prayer is the key to our closer walk with Him. Commit yourself to regular daily prayer.

Connect with other believers, we have a whole community of believers/support system. There is plenty to do in our communities as we get involved. There is strength in numbers.

Service to others. There is something awesome about service to those around us in love.  Our time and talents are meant to be a blessing to others. Do you sing? Are you organized? Do you like to help with the cooking? Reading to children? Assist the elderly?  When we show generosity, and compassion to those in need, we are living our faith and following the example of Jesus. James tells us that faith without works is show nuff is dead. The opportunity to serve is not just an act of kindness, but an act of worship that will bring us closer to God. Everywhere we go, God is right there with us y’all. He hears us from within our hearts and minds, He is guiding our steps, and he is our strength in the times of trials and joy.

Remember friends we are each others keeper, and the only time we should be looking down on someone is when we are helping them up.