Psalm 73:28 But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all your works. I. AS TO ITS NATURE, it comprehends much. It implies, first, that man is morally distant from God. This sacred exercise implies that a medium or a means of access is appointed. We have this blessed truth set forth by Christ Himself; "No man cometh unto the Father but by Me." He is the Daysman; He heals the wide and awful breach. In further illustration of this exalted exercise, I would remark, that prayer is appointed as the act of our approach to Him. There is a sense in which we cannot be nearer to God in one view than another. I cannot go where He is not. But in the act of prayer I enter as it were into His presence. Prayer is the appointed means of communication betwixt God and man. Let me further observe, in illustration of this holy exercise, that God requires it should be accompanied with a suitable disposition. Would you "draw near to God" acceptably? you must come with humility. Would you "draw near to God" with acceptance? you must draw near with fervour — contemplating the magnitude of the blessings which you ask. To "draw near" to God acceptably, you must draw near in perseverance. The blessing which you ask may be for a season withheld; or the success you implore may for a time be suspended. II. THE ADVANTAGES OF THIS EXALTED EXERCISE. For David says, "It is good to draw near to God." And why so? Because God has commanded it; and this circumstance alone ought sufficiently to convince us of its value and necessity. "It is good," because, apart from the authority of that command, it is reasonable. "There is no truth more obvious, and eternal." And there is yet another great advantage; it tends to help us to cherish the calmness of mind, so essential to our advancement, and our spiritual prosperity and peace. "It is," further, "good," as instrumental in obtaining all spiritual blessings. The truth of the text is exemplified in all the events of life; but in the awful hour of death you shall find, with additional energy of conviction, that "it is good for you to draw near to God." "He will be the strength of your heart, and your portion for ever." (John Bowers.) Parallel Verses KJV: But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all thy works. |
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