Coming Back to God

“Therefore say to them, Thus declares the Lord of hosts: Return to me, says the Lord of hosts, and I will return to you, says the Lord of hosts.” Zechariah 1:3 ESV 

The Lord appeals to the wayward people of Judah and Israel to return to Him. To return to the Lord implies that one who either left or turned their back on Him is now coming back with a repentant heart. In response the Lord returns to meet them, to forgive, restore and transform their lives. 

God begins to move towards us the moment we begin to move towards Him. He will never force or impose Himself upon us because of our free will, yet with every step that we move towards the Father He takes a step toward us.

We see this concept also in the New Testament in the book of James. “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 ESV. We also see this clearly shown in Jesus parable of the prodigal son. “And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.” Luke 15:20 ESV.

To return means you have left a place you are coming back to. “Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.” Acts 3:19 NASB

TODAY’S PRAYER 

Heavenly Father, let us return to you; forgive us for the areas we have strayed. Thank you for the invitation to return to you with the promise of forgiveness and refreshing in your presence.

God Bless,

Pastor Matt