Acts 17:27

Joan Brock Acts 17:27

"God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us. For in Him we live, and move and have our beings".

Paul was addressing the Greek Council (the Areopagus) in Athens near the Acropolis. This was a group of very religious men who had many objects that they worshipped. In verse 23 we read that Paul saw an altar with the inscription to "AN UNKNOWN GOD" so he takes this opportunity to proclaim the one true God to them. "The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. He gives all men life and breath and everything else." (v 24, 25). Paul approached this group on a level that they could understand so they would desire to SEEK only Him.

We too live in a religious environment but do we really SEEK the one true God or do we place our emphasis on created idols of wealth, status and the pursuit of happiness? God is the Presence within us at all times, in all circumstances. We must be able to seek Him in the depths of our souls and experience Him in the center of our lives rather than letting our environment dictate what we think and how we feel. Is there joy in your heart, no matter your outward circumstances? Do you have that peace that passes understanding? Do you know the love of Jesus in your heart? We only need to look within to feel His strength and experience His grace. Believe it, claim it and seek Him because He is there with open arms!

Precious Father, even when we take our eyes off of you and think we can do it alone, you are still there, watching and waiting. Your light shines on every situation we will ever face. May we seek you, find you and be satisfied. Amen.