The Asian in me says to keep quiet, wait to be approached, and even deny a few times until I’m offered at least three times…. That is the polite way to receive a gift or dealing with people in general, I’ve been taught. If most Asians you know fit this profile of being demure, then now you know why. Subconsciously, we value being reserved and “seemingly” humble.

However, this is NOT the way to approach God as our Father. We are to claim what is rightly ours. God likes it when we approach Him boldly and claim our right. Why? Because we are His children. When we approach Him boldly, we are no longer approaching Him on our merit – for we could never be bold on our own merit – but on Christ’s merit. So, when we approach Him boldly, we are proclaiming that Christ is our advocate and friend and He has given us the right to be treated as God’s sons/daughters.

When Caleb finally crossed the Jordan river after wandering in the desert for 40 years, he went to Joshua – then the leader of Israel – and boldly asked for what God has promised him. He wasn’t shy or reserved about it – “May I,” or “If you are willing….” but rather, “So now give me this hill country of which the LORD spoke on that day, for you heard on that day how the Anakim were there, with great fortified cities. It may be that the LORD will be with me, and I shall drive them out just as the LORD said.” (Joshua 14:12)

Do not doubt as to whether God will receive you when you approach Him. Of course you are unworthy. Of course you are dirty. As a matter of fact, a lot worse than you think you are. However, we approach Him wearing the righteousness of His Son, Jesus. In the name of Jesus, literally, we approach God.

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

PH