Over the last couple of days, we have examined this first thought that in order for me to truly meet with God, I must prepare my heart. Today I would like to introduce the second step…
Step #2 – I must give glory to God
Go with me to Acts 4. We are once again with Peter, John and the Jerusalem church. Read with me verse 24. Notice that “when they heard that”, that is, that Peter and John had been released by the Sanhedrin, “they lifted up or raised their voice to God with one accord.” Nobody planned it. This was a spontaneous expression of glory to God.
Note what they said, “Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is.” They praised God for His sovereign rule over everything. It was no sweat for the God who created everything from nothing to have a couple of His messengers acquitted!
If we are to experience this same kind of worship before God, we must give glory to God by coming to Him in humility. James 4:6 says, “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble.” Peter, John and the rest of the Jerusalem church had no problem coming to God in humility. They had seen His mighty works and knew it was only by His power that they were able to stand. Coming in humility means confessing our sins. We, too, must confess our sins to God (I John 1:9).