Acts 17:27–28
It is a very sad reality that many of us live as though we are doomed for destruction. We grope through the darkness of our circumstances as if sentenced to despair, discouragement, and despondency. Tears, pain, and sadness have blinded our eyes, and our ears have been closed to the truth that we are not alone.
We do not need to perform tiresome or burdensome rituals. All we need is to pray and even a whisper is enough to reach the ear of the One whose intent is to hear and answer us.
“That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.” Acts 17:27–28
This verse paints a vivid picture of an accessible God. There is no fee required to speak to Him; the prayer line is never busy, nor too engaged to prevent you from calling. How assuring is the invitation extended to us as children of God!
The distance between you and the Lord is often no more than the space between the floor and your knees and sometimes, just a sigh is all it takes. There is no reason to be afraid, for we are reminded in James 4:8:
“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.”
Isn’t it a beautiful thing to draw near to a Father who knows you so intimately? The One who enables you to live, to move, and to breathe? Acts assures us He is not far from any of us. For everyone who desires to speak to Him, the line is open 24/7, 365 days a year. The connection never drops, and the heavenly “data” is never depleted.
How reassuring and sobering this truth is, as affirmed in the book Prayer:
“That God is willing and ready to hear and to respond to our heartfelt prayers under all circumstances is profoundly reassuring. He is a loving Father who is interested both when things are going well and when the vicissitudes of life deal us devastating, tough, and terrible blows. When we feel like crying out, ‘God, where are You?’ it is good to know that He is just a prayer away.” Pr 3.4
Cheer up, brethren, take hold of the opportunity. He is only a prayer away.
Reflection
- What trials or discouragements have kept you from praying to God?
- Have you fully embraced the invitation to enter the prayer chamber?
- Do you truly realize how close God is, and will you draw near to Him, the One who knows you best?
Prayer
Dear Father, I come to You today weary and burdened. I have tried to carry my troubles alone for far too long, and it has been in vain. Remind me always that You are only a prayer away. May I remember that I do not need to do much just to whisper or sigh, “Help me, Lord, or I perish.” I need You today; please stay ever near. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.