So close, yet so very far off!

If you’ve ever tried to play the piano by starting with your fingers over by one key, or if you’ve ever been typing on the computer only to find that your hands started one key over, then you’ve noticed that either the tune was way off, or the letters/words on the screen weren’t making any sense. When this happens, you admit you were close, but close was incorrect and unpleasant, right? So you carefully reset your hand positions before trying again, and then give it another go at it. Finally, you begin to hear and see something that makes sense and is beautiful.

In the Bible, I can think of two examples of individuals who were so close, yet so way off.

In John 3, Nicodemus, a religious leader for the Jews, was confronted by the truth of Jesus. Jesus shares with Nicodemus how he was so close, yet so far from entering the Kingdom someday. Jesus helped Nicodemus understand where his truth and trust needed to lie, and once Nicodemus received that with his whole heart, then he too was on his way to heaven (John 7:50). Such a beautiful adjustment and scene in the life of Nicodemus.

Similarly, in Matthew 7:21-23, Jesus confronts those who claimed to have prophesied in His name, cast out demons in His name, and did many wonders in His name. Knowing their heart and intentions, He looks them in the eyes and says “I never knew you; depart from me.” Here they thought they were right on, maybe so close, yet Jesus lets them know that they were so very way far off.

Some in our culture believe that there are many ways and many beliefs on how to get to heaven. Sadly enough they’ll end up like many of the false prophets, but hopefully they’ll realize it in time and make the choice that Nicodemus eventually made when he was confronted with reality and THE truth.

If you feel like maybe you’re a little off, or “close,” then ask the Lord, and He’ll let you know. If your idea of truth needs realigned, then allow Him to show you how to correctly place your faith and trust in Him ALONE.

How can you know for sure if you don’t just have a head knowledge of God, but a saving knowledge of God? Check out the verses below, and this link as well Steps to Peace with God by Billy Graham.

James 2:19 (NLT) You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror.
Acts 4:12 (NIV) Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved."
Matthew 1:21 (NIV) She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."
Acts 10:43 (NIV) All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name."
1 Timothy 2:5 (NLT) For, There is one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus.
John 14:6 (NIV) Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Matthew 7:13-14 (NKJV) Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14 Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.