Monday, May 12, 2025

Nearer to Jesus

 

Nearer to Jesus

Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me. The one who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and reveal Myself to him. — John 14:21

The Lord Jesus reveals Himself in a special way to His people. Even if Scripture didn’t affirm this, countless believers can testify to it from their own experiences. They have had encounters with Jesus that go beyond mere reading or hearing, moments when He has manifested Himself to their souls in a personal and profound manner.

You can find stories in the lives of saints where Jesus has drawn near, unfolding the wonders of His person and filling their hearts with such joy that they felt as if they were already in heaven, though still on earth. For when Jesus reveals Himself, it is like a foretaste of paradise—heaven on earth!

These encounters with Christ have a deep impact on the believer’s heart. One effect is humility. If someone boasts, "I’ve had such spiritual experiences, so I must be great," it’s clear they have never truly encountered Jesus. For "God has regard for the humble but knows the proud from afar." (Psalm 138:6) God doesn’t draw near to the proud.

Another effect is happiness, for in God’s presence there is fullness of joy and eternal pleasures. (Psalm 16:11)

Holiness also follows. A person who lacks holiness has never truly experienced the presence of Christ. Some may boast of spiritual experiences, but we should see if their lives reflect what they profess. "Do not be deceived; God is not mocked." (Galatians 6:7) God will not show favor to the wicked, and He will not draw near to evildoers.

Thus, the three marks of true nearness to Jesus are humilityhappiness, and holiness. May God grant these to you, Christian!

Charles Spurgeon

 

No comments:

Post a Comment

THE SIMPLE FAITH OF CHILDREN

  THE SIMPLE FAITH OF CHILDREN From the mouths of children and infants You have perfected praise, that they may manifest your strength and s...