The phrase “Come up hither” is a divine invitation that resonates throughout Scripture, calling believers to ascend into deeper realms of understanding, intimacy, and purpose with God. This call is not merely about physical elevation but signifies a spiritual journey toward greater revelation and communion with the Creator. As we delve into the significance of this invitation, we will explore biblical principles of ascent, the implications of responding to God’s call, and how we can live in the fullness of His glory.
The Biblical Foundation of Ascending
The Call to Ascend
The phrase “Come up hither” is prominently featured in Revelation 4:1, where the Apostle John receives a vision from God:
“After this I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven! And the first voice, which I had heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, ‘Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.'”
This divine invitation sets the stage for John’s encounter with heavenly realities. It signifies a transition from the earthly realm to a higher spiritual plane, where God reveals His purposes and plans. This call to ascend invites us to leave behind the distractions of the world and enter into a deeper relationship with God.
The Nature of Ascension
Ascension in Scripture often symbolizes a movement toward holiness, revelation, and greater intimacy with God. In Psalm 24:3-4, the psalmist asks:
“Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord? And who shall stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to what is false and does not swear deceitfully.”
This passage emphasizes that ascending to God’s presence requires purity of heart and integrity. The call to “come up hither” is an invitation to pursue holiness and align ourselves with God’s character.
The Journey of Ascent
Preparation for Ascension
To respond to God’s invitation to ascend, we must prepare our hearts. Isaiah 40:31 tells us:
“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
Waiting on the Lord involves cultivating a posture of expectation and readiness. It is in the waiting that we develop the strength to rise above our circumstances and limitations. This preparation includes prayer, worship, and studying God’s Word.
Leaving Behind the Weight
As we ascend, we must also shed the weights that hinder our spiritual growth. Hebrews 12:1 reminds us:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”
Identifying and releasing anything that distracts or burdens us is crucial for our ascent. This may include unhealthy relationships, negative thought patterns, or unconfessed sin. By laying these aside, we create space for God’s glory to manifest in our lives.
Seeking God’s Presence
The heart of ascending is the desire to be in God’s presence. Psalm 27:4 expresses this beautifully:
“One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple.”
The pursuit of God’s presence is a lifelong journey. As we seek Him with our whole hearts, we are drawn into deeper intimacy and understanding of His nature.
The Experience of Ascending
Revelations and Insights
As we respond to God’s call to “come up hither,” we open ourselves to profound revelations. Revelation 1:3 states:
“Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.”
God desires to reveal His plans and purposes to us. When we ascend in our relationship with Him, we gain insights that shape our lives and empower us to fulfill our calling.
Transformation Through Encounter
Encountering God in the glory realm leads to transformation. 2 Corinthians 3:18 declares:
“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”
As we behold God’s glory, we are changed. This transformation is not merely about external behavior but involves a deep heart change that reflects God’s character in our lives.
The Empowerment of the Holy Spirit
In the glory realm, we experience the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Acts 1:8 promises:
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
This empowerment enables us to fulfill our God-given purpose. Stepping into the glory realm equips us to be effective witnesses of His love and truth.
The Impact of Ascending
A Call to Influence
When we ascend into the glory realm, we are called to influence the world around us. Matthew 5:14-16 states:
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
Our ascent into God’s presence empowers us to shine His light in a world filled with darkness. As we reflect His glory, we draw others to Him and fulfill our calling as ambassadors of Christ.
Fostering Community
Ascending into the glory realm also fosters community among believers. 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 illustrates this:
“For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.”
As we draw closer to God, we also draw closer to one another. Our shared experiences in the glory realm create a sense of unity and purpose, enabling us to support and encourage each other in our spiritual journeys.
Experiencing God’s Provision
When we step into God’s presence, we also experience His provision. Philippians 4:19 assures us:
“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”
In the glory realm, we find that God meets our needs—spiritually, emotionally, and physically. His abundance flows into our lives, equipping us to fulfill our calling and serve others.
The Challenges of Responding to the Call
Facing Resistance
Responding to God’s call to “come up hither” often involves facing resistance. The enemy seeks to distract and discourage us from pursuing a deeper relationship with God. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us:
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”
Understanding the nature of our spiritual battle equips us to stand firm in faith. As we ascend, we must remain vigilant and rely on God’s strength to overcome any obstacles that may arise.
Overcoming Doubt
Doubt can hinder our ascent into the glory realm. In Mark 9:24, a desperate father cries out:
“I believe; help my unbelief!”
This honest acknowledgment of doubt is a powerful reminder that God meets us where we are. When we wrestle with uncertainty, we can bring our doubts to God, asking Him to strengthen our faith and help us ascend to new heights.
The Need for Perseverance
The journey of ascent requires perseverance. Hebrews 12:1 encourages us:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”
Perseverance is essential as we pursue God and respond to His call. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards of ascending into His presence far outweigh the struggles.
Living a Life of Ascension
Cultivating a Lifestyle of Worship
To live in the glory realm, we must cultivate a lifestyle of worship. John 4:24 states:
“God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”
Worship is a continual response to God’s greatness and love. As we prioritize worship in our lives, we create an environment where God’s presence dwells, inviting us to ascend into deeper intimacy.
Engaging in the Word
The Word of God is essential for our ascent. Psalm 119:105 declares:
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
Engaging with Scripture guides us in our journey, providing wisdom and revelation. As we meditate on God’s Word, we align our hearts with His truth and open ourselves to His glory.
Serving Others
Living in the glory realm compels us to serve others. Galatians 5:13 reminds us:
“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”
As we ascend into God’s presence, we are empowered to serve with love and humility. Our service becomes an expression of His glory, impacting the lives of those around us.
The Promise of Future Glory
The Hope of Eternal Ascension
As believers, we have the hope of eternal ascension. Revelation 21:4 assures us:
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
This promise of future glory encourages us to persevere through trials, knowing that our ultimate destination is with God in His presence. The journey of ascent culminates in eternal communion with Him.
Living with Expectation
In light of the promise of future glory, we are called to live with expectation. Romans 8:18 states:
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”
Living with anticipation of God’s glory motivates us to pursue Him wholeheartedly. Our present struggles become opportunities for growth as we look forward to the fullness of His presence.
“Come up hither” is a divine invitation that beckons us to ascend into the glory realm of God. This call is a journey toward greater intimacy, revelation, and purpose. As we prepare our hearts, shed distractions, and seek His presence, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God’s glory.
Stepping into the glory realm impacts not only our lives but also the lives of those around us. As we reflect His light and love, we fulfill our calling as ambassadors of Christ, drawing others to Him.
In the face of challenges, we are reminded that our ascent requires perseverance and faith. God’s promise of future glory encourages us to keep pressing forward, knowing that our ultimate destination is eternal communion with Him.
May we respond to His invitation to “come up hither,” embracing the journey of ascent and experiencing the fullness of His glory in our lives. As we ascend, let us shine brightly in a world in need, proclaiming the goodness and grace of our God.
Yours In His Service
C. C. RAYMOND
