Come in Humility and Holy Fear

[Daily Devotional]

Come in Humility and Holy Fear 

God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in
reverence of all them that are about him. Ps. 89: 7. 

Humility and reverence should characterize the deportment of all who come
into the presence of God. In the name of Jesus we may come before Him with
confidence, but we must not approach Him with the boldness of presumption,
as though He were on a level with ourselves. There are those who address the
great and all- powerful and holy God, who dwelleth in light unapproachable,
as they would address an equal, or even an inferior. There are those who
conduct themselves in His house as they would not presume to do in the
audience- chamber of an earthly ruler. These should remember that they are
in His sight whom seraphim adore, before whom angels veil their faces. God
is greatly to be reverenced; all who truly realize His presence will bow in
humility before Him. 

Some think it a mark of humility to pray to God in a common manner, as if
talking with a human being. They profane His name by needlessly and
irreverently mingling with their prayers the words, "God Almighty"-- awful,
sacred words, which should never pass the lips except in subdued tones and
with a feeling of awe. . .

It is the heartfelt prayer of faith that is heard in heaven and answered on
earth. God understands the needs of humanity. He knows what we desire before
we ask Him. He sees the soul's conflict with doubt and temptation. He marks
the sincerity of the suppliant. He will accept the humiliation and
affliction of the soul. "To this man will I look," He declares, "even to him
that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word."

It is our privilege to pray with confidence, the Spirit inditing our
petitions. With simplicity we should state our needs to the Lord, and claim
His promise. . . .

Our prayers should be full of tenderness and love. When we yearn for a
deeper, broader realization of the Saviour's love, we shall cry to God for
more wisdom. If ever there was a need of soul- stirring prayers and sermons,
it is now. The end of all things is at hand. O that we could see as we
should the necessity of seeking the Lord with all the heart! Then we should
find Him. May God teach His people how to pray. 

>From God's Amazing Grace - Page 91