Barriers Between God and Us

"He can only keep those who have handed themselves over to Him."  - Watchman Nee

We're all aware that there are certain things that keep us away from God; barriers, if you will. But how can these be overcome if they go unidentified? Although we can't possibly discuss all of them here, we can examine a handful and offer some suggestions to rise above them.

To begin, we need to be honest in the confession of our sins. It's far too easy to cover, and/or make excuses and allowances for our offenses. We need to be straightforward with ourselves, others, and especially with God. Let's know ourselves and not excuse our sins. - James 5:16; Psalm 66:18 (KJV)

The dizzying pace of life can nudge us out of our spirituality. There are those occasions when we hardly have time to think. And, If we aren't careful, the busyness can prevent us from talking with God, and living and walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25). We must take time for prayer and meditation. It is crucial to our spiritual natures.

Something else that keeps us from God is inconsistency of spiritual nourishment. Specifically, I am referring to the hit-or-miss habit of reading of the Bible. We can also apply this description to church attendance. We need to to have spiritual nourishment at regular intervals. Additionally, we require communion with God as much as we do our daily bread.

The attraction of worldliness lures many into its trap. This is a beautiful world we live in, and God wants nothing more than for us to enjoy it. But too many have let the world take over their lives. We are reminded to"not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit" (Romans 8:4). We must be cautious against self-serving and neglecting God.

Something else that is detrimental is offending or provoking the Holy Spirit. In this instance, the Holy Spirit approaches us repeatedly and we do not receive Him. We ignore Him, his voice is drowned out in the confusion of earthly pursuits. By doing so, we deprive ourselves from the grace and blessing of God (Ephesians 4:30).

Lastly, there is the deliberate and willful disobedience of God, or sin. If nothing else drives God away this will surely do it. Sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2). Things like sinful planning, thoughts, and acts always build barriers between us and God. We must be on guard against these things and cling those which bring us closer with God.

Scripture: Ephesians 6:11; Matthew 4:4; Romans 12:2; Isaiah 26:3; 1 John 3:4

Prayer: Dear God, the cares of my heart are many, but your consolations cheer my soul, amen

May the Lord bless!

Shawna