Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee
E’en though it be a cross that raiseth me
Still all my song shall be, nearer, my God, to Thee

Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer to Thee

Though like the wanderer, the sun gone down
Darkness be over me, my rest a stone
Yet in my dreams I’d be nearer, my God to Thee

There let the way appear, steps unto Heav’n
All that Thou sendest me, in mercy given
Angels to beckon me nearer, my God, to Thee

Then, with my waking thoughts bright with Thy praise
Out of my stony griefs Bethel I’ll raise
So by my woes to be nearer, my God, to Thee

Or, if on joyful wing cleaving the sky
Sun, moon, and stars forgot, upward I’ll fly
Still all my song shall be, nearer, my God, to Thee

There in my Father’s home, safe and at rest
There in my Savior’s love, perfectly blest
Age after age to be, nearer my God to Thee

 Sharon Singers of the Sharon Mennonite Bible Institute
Written by Sarah F. Adams

*   ~   ♥   ~    ✞    ~   ♥   ~   *

“Closer, God, to You.”  What does this look like to you?  For me it is not listening to the self-talk, which says I am not good enough…I am not worthy to sing His praises…I am not worthy to pray over someone who is hurting. {Ever feel this way?}

When we are subject to God’s will in our lives, we are blessed beyond measure.  When we come to Him, asking and laying down all of our requests before the Throne of grace, God is just and true to guide us.  His grace is sufficient to cover all of our sins.  His forgiveness knows no boundaries. If you or anyone continues to sin but asks with a penitent heart, God will hear our cry and toss our sinfulness into the sea.  Know and trust this.  Forgive yourself (and others).  Give your cares to Him Who is more than able to carry the burden.  Jesus has already paid the price at  Calvary for us.

*   ~   ♥   ~    ✞    ~   ♥   ~   *

Father, thank You for loving us unconditionally.  Help us to forgive those who have wronged us.  Let us find a way to give thanks in everything and praise You, especially during this holiday season.  Help us to live up to Your standards, not ours.  In Jesus’ name, amen!