A.M.F. Services 

Art of Prayer 

#10:  HELP ME TO DRAW NEAR TO YOU, O LORD.

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” - James 4:8

Painting entitled "Closer!" by Alton Felix (2012). Acrylic on canvas. 

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for this time that I can spend in Your presence. O Lord, there are so many ‘attractions’ and 'distractions' that seek to pull me away from You. Sometimes, life can become so busy that I forget to pray and/or to read Your Word.

Help me to make You my First love, and to put You first ahead of all my other needs and wants.  From today onwards, I make a conscious effort remain focused on You, and to draw near to You.

For James 4:8 says:

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

Sometimes the battle is in my mind, where I reflect on the pains and hurts that others have caused me.  Instead of basking in Your presence, I take valuable time to entertain spirits of anger, non-forgiveness and bitterness. Forgive me, O Lord, for my sins, and cleanse my hands from all unrighteous works.

O Lord, purify my heart and mind, as I take authority daily over my thoughts,  and leave no room in my heart for the enemy to occupy.

Your Word in Psalm 73:28 reminds me:

“But as for me, the nearness of God is my good…”

I appreciate that every moment that I spend with You is for my good. I receive spiritual guidance and  insights. I learn how to put my trust in You, and to obtain my breakthrough through prayers. I  receive divine protection from the works of darkness. As I remain connected to You, I am attuned to Your divine purpose for my life. Your blessings continue to flow through my life, all for Your honour and glory..

I thank You O Lord, for drawing close to me as I draw closer to You. In Jesus’ name I pray with thanksgiving. Amen.