Daily encouragement

Video by

Liz Hoffman

ACF Global Staff

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Acts 17:24-25

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 human hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.

Behind the Scenes

God, who are you? This is the question we’ve been attempting to answer. These verses in Acts are really mind-blowing when you break them down. God doesn’t need anything! Of course he doesn’t, he is the Creator of all things! God doesn’t need us either! Shocking, I know! However, he made us, and he wants us. He created us on purpose and for a purpose. Wow, what a thought! You are not a mistake. He has a plan for you.

 

God created a vast variety of animals; the gorgeous lakes, rivers, oceans, and mountains; all kinds of beautiful flowers, plants, and trees; but thought the world could use one of you, too. Not as an add-on or an afterthought, but a beautiful complement to his design. Let that sink in a moment. God thought of everything and all that we need is provided by his hand. Even our very breath. Today’s verses also remind us that God has given everyone life and breath. Wow!

Make it Real

Today’s question asks, “How does God’s supremacy remind us of our place in this world?”  Here are some synonyms for supremacy: dominance, excellence, superiority, domination.  Often these words conjure up negative thoughts like “white supremacy” or someone taking dominance over another person in a violent way. That’s not what we’re talking about here. It is not God’s heart or nature to be prideful or mean. God is supreme over everything. He is excellent and perfect in every way. Psalm 18:30 (NIV) “As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.”  Why? Because he is and always has been. He has no beginning or end. In Revelation we read, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” Rev 22:13 (NIV emphasis mine). That’s so hard for our finite minds to comprehend.  Psalm 139 is a great passage to read if you are feeling insignificant. It tells us that God knit us together in our mother’s womb. All of our days are ordained before one of them comes to pass. God’s design for you and for me is specific and purposeful. He knew exactly what he was doing, and it was totally on point!

End in Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for creating us and choosing to use us even though you don’t need us.  I’m so glad that you want us! Show us what you have for us and how you want to use us. What an honor that we get to serve you, show us what that looks like. You created us and everything in the world for your pleasure. Thank you for loving us. You, Sovereign Lord, are above all and in all, and we are immensely grateful. Amen.

Written by

Valerie Sheaffer

ACF Devo Team