The journey into God's presence, which we began in Needful Things, continues in this volume. This time however, we are going to take a look at topics which are often times ignored because of the conviction which comes upon any true believer who is confronted with the personal shortcomings which are highlighted by a detailed examination of such subjects as holiness, commitment and complete submission to God's Word.
All too often these areas are glossed over in hopes that maybe we will not be held accountable if we are ignorant of the Scriptural admonition to be holy. Unfortunately, the old maxim "Ignorance is bliss" seems to be the motto many Christians live by in this area. On the other end of the specrum we find those believers who assume that holiness can be measured by a list of rules, or a dress code.
Each of these viewpoints fails to recognize the fact that God has established these requirements for our own benefit. He does not want to punish us - in reality, quite the opposite is true. The Most High longs to fellowship with us (Gen.2:8 & Matt.23:37), but since only that which is holy can remain in His presence (Ez.44:10-33; 48:9-12 & Isaiah 35:8-10), this longed for relationship will have to wait until God's people prepare themselves (Rev.19:7-8). For too long the Church has treated the Bible's teachings on purity, holiness and commitment as a roadblock on our journey, when in turth they should be viewed as a roadmap which clearly points the way into the Holy of Holies in all three realms ... spirit, soul & body.
My prayer for you is that like Joshua and Caleb in Nu.13:30 &
14:6-9 you will make the quality decision to follow the Lord's directions
in the areas discussed in this book, and that you will give no credence
to the giants which are marshalled against you. If you do, then like Joshua
and Caleb before you, you may be able to cross the Jordan on dry ground,
and physically come into the promised land of the Lord's presence without
tasting death (Heb.3:7 thru 4:11 and Nu.14:23-24).