How are you at keeping promises? Have you broken the rule so many times you probably will never make a promise again? I know an evangelist who was asked to pray for someone. His reply was when God brings you to my remembrance, I will pray for you. He didn’t make a promise because he knew he could not pray for hundreds of individuals by name.

A promise is a promise to be honored. The book of James makes a challenging statement in 4:8; “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you” (CSB). Our God, who finds it impossible to lie (Titus 1:2, Hebrews 6:18, Numbers 23:19), gave believers a promise of commitment. When His children want a meaningful relationship, they must take the initiative.

Start getting closer to him. You might ask yourself, “How?” Two thoughts come to mind. First, ask Him. That’s prayer. Secondly, somewhere, or somehow, the Lord will tell you to start reading your Bible—start with the book of John, then read the little books of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd John.

Next, in the Old Testament, read Psalms. This book reveals man’s heart in communicating with God. David, the author of many psalms, wrote of his trials and triumphs. Palms 139:23, 24 (CSB) reveals David’s openness with God by taking the initiative. “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way.”

In Acts 13:22, God states, “I have found David the son of Jesse to be a man after my own heart, who will carry out all my will” (CSB). God didn’t end humanity and Godly character with David. He has used thousands of people who desire a close relationship with Him. Most of these are not in any book of records, but have lived as a burning torch of Godliness in their community.

God is still seeking individuals who will step forward and be examples. People who propose to “Draw near to God” will ask the Lord to search their hearts. When they respond positively, God promises, “He will draw near to them.”
