A saved person can go through a crisis of faith and temporarily lose confidence in the sovereignty of God. In that weakened state, he can fall back into the sinful thoughts, words, and deeds that were prevalent in his former life.
If a believer goes back to playing in the world’s sandbox, his 'hands' become filthy and unfit for the work at hand. He is encouraged to repent and return to the Lord ... 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)
'Drawing nigh to God' is not an isolated event, but a continual surrender to His Lordship.
Maclaren - If we ever had a glimpse of what we really are and truly pondered our character ... there can be no attitude, no disposition, no statement more honest than that ‘Woe is me, for I am undone’.
If you feel crushed under the weight of compromised Christianity, be genuine and forthright as you come before the 'throne of grace' ... The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart and saves such as have a contrite spirit. (Psalm 34:18)
Clean hands and a pure heart are promised to those who acknowledge their condition ... If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
Know that the 'cleansing of our hands' does not originate with us, nor can it be carried out in our own strength. The Holy Spirit Who, before we were saved, convicted us of sin and the judgment to come ... now compels us to obey God's will and gives us the means to do so.
Allow His power to sanctify and transform you.
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