There are plenty of people on this planet whom I would be reluctant to approach. Celebrities, world leaders, intimidating strangers, powerful judges… They may or may not grant me an audience, but if they do, it will most likely be an awkward, humiliating affair.

Truthfully, these people don’t really have anything that valuable to offer me. An autograph, an opportunity to make a request for my community or plead a case? If I’m lucky they may care enough to try to solve some problem for me.

Compared with God, the Creator of the universe and all that is in it, no one on earth has any power or authority or status of lasting importance. God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and perfectly holy. He could destroy everything and remake it in an instant.

And yet, He says I can come to Him anytime without being reluctant, ashamed, or intimidated.

“Therefore, let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need.” (Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭16,‬ ‭CSB)‬‬

God is the only person I have any real reason to fear. But God doesn’t want that to be our relationship. He wants me to come to Him with boldness! He doesn’t want me to hesitate for one moment when I contemplate asking for His help or guidance or comfort.

Dear God, I am so grateful that although you deserve honor and worship and praise, you don’t want me to fear you, to avoid you, to be too ashamed or scared to approach you. Thank you for your grace, mercy, and love. Thank you for welcoming me warmly into your presence at any time, no matter what. Here I come!