Seeing the Lord

“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.”—Hebrews 12:14

In the last words of her autobiography, Amanda Smith prayed that God would raise up “younger women who have talent…to do better work for the Master.” She prayed that they would continue the standard “with the inscription deeply engraven on heart and life: ‘Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord.’”

Smith had encountered prejudices throughout her life. Born into slavery, it seemed unlikely, even impossible, that her life could amount to anything significant. Even after gaining her freedom, she felt resistance because she was an African-American woman. But she learned that anything was possible for those who committed their lives to God and had faith.

She realized that living for God is a personal decision; each of us has choices. Because of her commitment, she impacted the lives of thousands of people throughout the world.

The Bible reminds us that God desires to reveal Himself to us in new ways. He wants to teach us new insights and deepen our walk with Him. He wants to free us from worry and fear and give us boldness and confidence. He wants to give us His peace and meet every need.

He waits to see our response. Do we want Him to move in our lives? Do we want more of Him? Do we want to “see the Lord”? If you do, seek to live a life that is pleasing to Him. Commit yourself to Him. Serve Him wholeheartedly.

Reflection Question: Write a prayer asking God to reveal His holiness to you in a personal way.