Scripture Reading Acts 17:27-28
Key Verses:
• Acts 17:27 – “God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us.”
• Acts 17:28 – “For in him we live and move and have our being.”
God Is Nearer Than We Think
The Apostle Paul, speaking to the Athenians at Mars Hill, declared a profound truth: God is not distant or hidden—He is close, actively inviting us to know Him. Unlike the Greek gods, who were seen as remote and uninterested in human affairs, the true God is intimately involved in our lives.
Paul explains that God has placed us in history so that we might seek Him (Acts 17:27). Yet, even when we fail to reach out, He remains near, sustaining us in every breath and step (Acts 17:28).
The Barren Fig Tree: A Call to Fruitfulness
In Luke 13:6-9, Jesus tells the parable of a barren fig tree:
A man planted a fig tree in his vineyard, but for three years it bore no fruit. The owner wanted to cut it down, but the gardener pleaded for one more year to cultivate it, hoping it would bear fruit.
This parable speaks of God’s nearness, patience, and invitation to transformation:
1. The Fig Tree Stands for Us
Like the fig tree, we sometimes fail to bear fruit—whether through spiritual stagnation, apathy, or sin.
John 15:4 – “Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself.”
2. God, the Owner, Desires Fruitfulness
God longs for our lives to reflect His love, righteousness, and grace.
Galatians 5:22-23 – “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”
3. Jesus, the Gardener, Intercedes for Us
Jesus, like the gardener, pleads on our behalf, offering us grace, nourishment, and another chance.
Hebrews 7:25 – “He always lives to intercede for them.”
4. The Urgency of Repentance
The fig tree was given one more year, but time was limited. Likewise, God’s patience calls us to turn to Him while He is near.
Isaiah 55:6 – “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.”
God Is Near in Our Struggles
We often feel distant from God during trials, yet He is closest in our pain:
Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Matthew 28:20 – “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Even when we feel barren—spiritually dry, weak, or discouraged—God stands ready to revive us. Like the gardener with the fig tree, He does not give up on us.
Tearing Down the Illusion of Distance
The enemy whispers that God is far away, but Scripture assures us otherwise:
Romans 8:39 – “Nothing… will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus.”
Deuteronomy 31:8 – “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
God is closer than our breath, sustaining our very existence. He is both the Creator above and the Comforter within.
Living in the Nearness of God
How do we respond to God’s nearness?
1. Seek Him Daily – Spend time in prayer and Scripture, knowing He is near.
James 4:8 – “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.”
2. Trust in Tough Times – Even when life feels barren, trust that He is working beneath the surface.
Habakkuk 3:17-18 – “Though the fig tree does not bud… yet I will rejoice in the Lord.”
3. Bear Fruit for His Kingdom – Let God cultivate your heart so that your life overflows with love and righteousness.
Matthew 5:16 – “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Conclusion: Embracing His Presence
God is not far off—He is near, sustaining, loving, and calling us to a fruitful life. The barren fig tree reminds us that grace is extended, but time is precious. We are invited to turn to Him, grow, and bear fruit.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for being near to me, even when I feel distant. Cultivate my heart so that I may bear fruit for Your kingdom. Help me trust Your presence, seek You daily, and embrace the life You offer. Amen.
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