JANUARY 17, 2025
Topic: “BENEFITS OF INTIMACY WITH GOD: CLEANSING FROM WITHIN ”
Text: James 4:1-8
Memory Verse: “Submit yourselves, then, to God, Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7
Intimacy with God is a precious gift that brings numerous benefits to our lives. When we cultivate a close relationship with God, we experience a depth of connection that transforms us from the inside out. James 4:1-8 is a reminder to us as believers, that intimacy with God transforms our lives for good. Whenever we draw near to Him, He draws near to us.
As human beings, there is always a conflict within us, as written in verses 1-2. Our desire and conflict stem from a lack of intimacy with God. Distancing yourself from God is indeed a clear indication that you are a friend of the world; you are exposed to the conflict of the mind that produces evil. However, the Psalmist said; “But as for me, it is good to be near God …” Ps. 73:28.
In life, men are prone to misplaced desires as stated in (v.3). We often ask for things that do not align with God’s will. This is because we are not nearer to Him. Beloved, because our minds are far away from Him all the time, that is why the conflict of selfish desires grows in us. We need to know that intimacy with God keeps us far away from the selfish desires that establish conflict in our minds. The Bible says that we are in the world but we are not of the world. Therefore, friendship with the world simply means enmity with God; which takes us far away from God but humility and submission bring us nearer to Him.
I will want you to note that there are promises made to us by our Father in Heaven as benefits of drawing nearer to Him. When we draw near to God He will give us grace, but the proud He will resist (v.6). If you want to enjoy these wonderful promises, you need to draw near to God. The following are some additional benefits we will derive from Him: peace and stability, clarity in decision-making, strength in trials, guidance and wisdom. Finally, you will have joy and purpose in life. May we draw near to Him and enjoy His blessings.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I desire intimacy with you. Help me align my desires with your will and humble myself before you. Thank you for the promise of your presence and grace, Amen.