January 24

For through him we have access by one Spirit unto the Father. - Ephesians 2:18.

THE effect of sin is to separate us and God, and to keep us from God. This is the condition of all men by nature. The degradation, the misery, the wretchedness of sin, all arise from our separation from God, and our happiness and our elevation must, therefore, arise from our re-admission to him, and fellowship and communion with him. And, says the Apostle, “we have boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus.”

The approach to an earthly monarch may be difficult, and it must necessarily be very much limited. They cannot always personally receive every petition presented to them, nor can they hold intercourse with all their subjects; this would neither be in accordance with their ability or dignity. But with regard to believers and their Sovereign, who is King of kings and Lord of lords, they can have access to him at all times; they can tell him all that perplexes them, all that distresses and alarms them; they can communicate to him what they are not at liberty to communicate to their dearest friend; they can have access unto him in every place, talk with him by the way, and have communion with him, and, Isaac-like, they may find their meditations of him in the fields to be sweet; and even while transacting their ordinary business they may have delightful intercourse with him.

Thus also we may have access unto him in his house, at his table; we may lean on his arm, repose in his bosom, and enjoy him as the strength of our heart, and our portion for ever.