Draw Near to God: A Wednesday Prayer for Renewal

This Wednesday morning, November 5th, 2025, let us turn our hearts to James 4:8: “Come near to God, and He will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” What a powerful invitation!

To draw near to God is a choice—a deliberate act of the will. Right now, in this moment, we decide to pursue Him, to seek His presence, and to live in obedience, which blesses not only our lives but also honors our Lord.

James tells us to wash our hands—to turn away from whatever dirt or sin defiles us. Whatever in life seems satisfying or exciting pales in comparison to the joy of being close to God. Then he says, purify your hearts. Even though our hearts are naturally flawed, God sees the small spark of desire to know Him, to allow Him to guide us, and to prepare us for eternal life.

He warns against being double-minded—trying to live for the world and for God at the same time. We cannot truly embrace both. God calls us to wholehearted devotion. And His promise is clear: when we come near, He will draw near.

Father, in the name of Jesus, we come to You this morning. Give us the grace to wash away our sins, to turn from deception, and to purify our hearts. Help us to draw near to You with undivided minds, ready to receive Your mercy and fellowship. Revive our spirits, awaken our hearts, and restore us in true love for You.

Lord, as we live today, let us walk in reverent awe of You. Draw us close, remove anything that separates us from You, and cover us with Your favor and goodness. No matter where we are in the world, let us rejoice that we belong to You, even in a world that fades and changes.

Glory to God! Amen. And may we take this day to seek Him earnestly, drawing near, knowing He promises to come near to us.