“Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?” Psalm 15:1 (NLT)
Have you ever wondered if you’re qualified to come into God’s presence? Maybe you’ve felt like your life isn’t quite “together” enough to approach Him. David’s question in Psalm 15 addresses this very concern: “Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?” He asks this question to help us understand the heart God welcomes.
David’s answer reveals the characteristics of those who can enter God’s house: people who live blameless lives, speak the truth, refuse to gossip, treat others with kindness, despise evil while honoring the faithful, keep their promises even when it costs them, and act with financial integrity. At first glance, this list might feel overwhelming or discouraging. But notice these aren’t rigid requirements to earn God’s favor but descriptions of what a heart transformed by His love naturally looks like.
Looking at these characteristics, you might think, “I’ll never measure up to this standard.” And you’re right—this isn’t about perfection. We’ll never measure up 100% of the time, and that’s precisely why we need Jesus. David isn’t giving us a checklist to earn God’s favor but describing what a transformed heart looks like. When we receive Jesus’s incredible gift of salvation, something beautiful happens: we begin to ask different questions. Instead of “Am I good enough?” we ask, “Does my life reflect someone who loves and is loved by God?”
This week, try practicing what I call “heart-check moments” throughout your day. When you’re about to speak—whether texting a friend, responding to your children, or talking with your husband—pause and ask, “Will these words build up or tear down?” When you’re faced with a choice—keeping a promise that’s now inconvenient, or responding to someone who’s mistreated you—remember that these moments are opportunities to reflect God’s character. Start small, but start somewhere.
The wonderful truth is that we don’t have to wait for heaven to experience God’s presence. Through His transforming love, we can draw near to Him right now. These characteristics aren’t the price of admission—they’re the natural overflow of a heart that His grace has transformed.
REFLECT
Since you don’t have to wait for heaven to experience God’s presence, what’s one way you could draw near to Him right now, just as you are?
