Jesus, Draw Me Nearer To Thee

Thursday, December 8, 2011

I recently spoke on the phone with a dear friend.  She discussed how these past few months had been very trying and lonely for her.  I was surprised to hear that this was the case.  I guess I had assumed all was well with her since the last time we had spoken.  She made the comment during our conversation that these difficult times had driven her to the Lord and how even though she has been facing difficulties, there was something sweet about being able to go to the Lord with her sorrows. 


I was so thankful for the conversation that I shared with this dear friend of mine.  It reminded me of the many times trials and heartaches of my past have caused me to flee to Christ as my refuge.  He has always been my closest friend during the most trying times.  When it felt as though others had abandoned me, He was always there to hold me in His arms.


This also caused me to evaluate where I am in my fellowship with Him now.  Do I run to Him daily even when life seems easy and full of joy or is it only when I am faced with hardships?  What is it that causes me to flee to Christ?


It reminded me of the verse in that song by Sovereign Grace Music, "As Long As You Are Glorified."


"Shall I take from Your hand Your blessings
Yet not welcome any pain
Shall I thank You for days of sunshine
Yet grumble in days of rain
Shall I love You in times of plenty
Then leave You in days of drought
Shall I trust when I reap the harvest
But when winter winds blow, then doubt."
The words of this song clearly express that we are to run to Him during times of both sorrow and joy.


All of this started to make me wish I could face a trial in order to feel that satisfying and deeper communion with my Heavenly Father once more.  I should know as a child of God, that there are still many more to come my way.  I can be sure of that!


Be encouraged, dear Christian.  Our King always delights in bringing us under His wings of mercy...trial or no trial.


Verses for further meditation:


"Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!" - Psalm 34:8


"The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit." - Psalm 34:18


"Come to me all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yolk upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yolk is easy, and my burden is light." - Matthew 11:28-30


"...He will not leave you or forsake you." - Deuteronomy 31:6