If we draw near to the Lord, then God will draw near and will not reject us, let us cleanse ourselves from all impurity and from everything that calls us to sin against our God, because if we act like this, we will be purified and have a clean heart before our God.
In chapter four of the epistle of Santiago we find a call to approach God and cleanse our hands, that is why from the first verse it begins talking about the bad works of men and what they should do to receive something good from of God.
In order to overcome all this misconduct, James recommends the following, to have a full and healthy life before God:
Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
James 4:8
Go Go. Sinful men, leave all your evil ways and come closer to the Lord, so that when you ask you can receive wisdom and strength, to be able to continue fighting.
We all know that if we get closer to God, then our lives will be better and when we ask God we will do it well because God will direct us in our requests.
If you are one of those double-minded or of those sinners who walk badly before God. So it is good that you get closer to God as James tells us in this chapter.
This call to draw near to God is not a superficial invitation, but a deep and sincere exhortation that requires humility, repentance, and obedience. James makes it clear that approaching God involves action on our part: cleansing our hands and purifying our hearts. This means abandoning sinful practices and also examining our inner motives, thoughts, and intentions, because God is not only concerned with what we do outwardly, but with what dwells within our hearts.
The double-minded person mentioned by James is someone who tries to live between two paths: one foot in the ways of the world and the other in the ways of God. This inner conflict produces instability, spiritual weakness, and confusion. For this reason, the apostle urges believers to make a firm decision to fully commit to God, understanding that a divided heart cannot please Him nor experience the fullness of His presence.
Drawing near to God also implies recognizing our total dependence on Him. Human strength is insufficient to overcome sin, temptation, and the constant struggles of daily life. Only when we humble ourselves before the Lord, acknowledging our weaknesses, can we receive His grace, which empowers us to resist evil and walk in righteousness. God does not despise a contrite and humble heart; on the contrary, He draws near to those who sincerely seek Him.
James reminds us that true cleansing begins with repentance. Repentance is not merely feeling regret, but a genuine turning away from sin and a deliberate decision to pursue holiness. When we confess our sins before God and abandon them, He is faithful to forgive us and restore us. This restoration brings peace to the soul and renews our relationship with the Lord.
Furthermore, approaching God transforms our prayers. When our hearts are purified and our intentions aligned with His will, our prayers become sincere and effective. We no longer ask out of selfish desires, but according to what glorifies God and benefits our spiritual growth. In this way, the Lord guides us in wisdom and strengthens us to persevere in faith, even in the midst of trials.
It is important to understand that God’s promise to draw near to us is certain and faithful. He does not reject those who come to Him with sincerity. No matter how far a person may feel from God, the door of mercy remains open for those who decide to return. God’s grace is greater than any sin, and His love restores those who seek Him wholeheartedly.
Therefore, this message from James is a constant reminder for every believer to examine their walk with God. It calls us to leave behind hypocrisy, spiritual indifference, and sinful habits, and to pursue a life of holiness and obedience. By drawing near to God daily through prayer, repentance, and submission to His Word, we will experience His nearness, guidance, and transforming power in our lives.