What is the proper position between the truth that God is our Friend and the truth that He is an awesomely Holy God?

I want to approach this One Who gives me life and strength and wants my fellowship (go figure!). But He is so holy that He is unapproachable (1Tim. 6:16). And I am reminded that when anyone draws near, he must be very careful not to do anything wrong, or he will be destroyed (e.g., Nadab & Abihu; Ananias & Sapphira). I am afraid to approach because I see all my sin, for any of which I could be destroyed.

But I have this deep longing to approach the LORD! I need to approach Him. I want Him to use me for His glory, but in a positive way (as opposed to the negative ways of Nadab & Abihu or Ananias & Sapphira). The ones who glorify Him most are the ones who draw near to Him. But I am aware of His Holiness.

What to do? My prayer is that He will enlarge my capacity of character so that I can approach closer to Him. At my present capacity, I would be destroyed in an instant!

Chas
7/30/07