When Paul began explaining God to the people in Athens, he told them the Lord brought them to this point in time: “27 so that they might seek God, and perhaps they might reach out and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us. 28 For in Him we live and move and exist, as even some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’ Acts 17:27-28 (HCSB)
I’ve always loved this description of our relationship with God. It first describes my discovery of him. I wasn’t like some great explorer setting out on an epic quest. I was more like a guy that gets up in the middle of the night, stumbling around in the dark. When I finally did find God, I discover that he wasn’t very far from me in the first place.
What I really love is the picture it paints of living with God.
Paul doesn’t talk about following rules. He doesn’t mention living up to standards. He doesn’t talk about impressing God. The exact opposite idea is given. Relationship with God is easy. It takes no effort. It’s natural. It’s like breathing or smiling…it just happens because we’re his. Of course, there are rules and standards, but really it’s all about simply living, moving, and existing.
No striving…just being. I don’t know about you, but I needed this verse today.
