I frequently use an online ticket broker to purchase tickets to sporting events and concerts. Of course, it is imperative to use a properly approved and trusted broker to ensure the tickets are valid for entry to the events. It can be embarrassing and costly to buy invalid tickets.
Coming before God’s throne requires that we have the proper ticket, as well. Hebrews 10:22 says, “let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.” So drawing near to God requires a true desire, sincere faith, and a clean conscience. When we trust in Jesus for salvation, He changes our desires, encourages and develops our faith, and cleanses us from sin. Then we are ready to approach God’s throne in prayer and worship. We can come to Him with confidence because Jesus Christ goes before us and with us as our advocate and intercessor. Without the cleansing that the blood of Jesus provides and faith in His sacrifice, we dare not approach God’s throne.
Reluctant Retiree 