The Lodestar

Purity of heart is a pre-condition to behold the glory of God. The writer of Hebrews encouraged to “Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord” (Heb 12:14). The Old Testament also requires that those who draw near to the presence of the Lord must be pure in heart. “Who shall ascend the hill of the LORD? And who shall stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift his soul to what is false and does not swear deceitfully” (Psa 24:3—4).

This affirmation that those who are pure in heart shall see God contradicts the various statements in the Bible: “No one has ever seen God” (John 1:18). Further, God told Moses “You cannot see my face, for man shall not see me and live” (Exod 33:20).

This apparent contradiction vanishes if we realise that the verb “see” could also mean apprehending the divine nature besides the physical sight. The more we scrape off the dirt and grime of carnal nature, the clearer God’s nature appears. It requires daily cleansing and sanctification of our lives.

The traditional hymn, “Let the beauty of Jesus,” echoes the hunger for a level of heart purity that allows one to behold the divine nature and glory.

“Let The Beauty Of Jesus Be Seen In Me/ All His Wondrous Compassion And Purity;/ O Thou Spirit Divine,/ All My Nature Refine/ ‘Till The Beauty Of Jesus Be Seen In Me.”

Today, let us examine our hearts. Are hidden stains, grudges, untruths, or distractions clouding our spiritual sight? Would you join me in praying: "Lord, cleanse my heart. Let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me."

This week, make it your purpose to seek peace, to turn from anything that dulls your spiritual vision, and to pursue holiness without which no one will see the Lord. As you do, you will find the radiance of God’s nature becoming clearer in your life.

Take a quiet moment today to ask God what He would have you set aside and what He longs to reveal of Himself to you.

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