Does God Care That Much?

For Wednesday, June 15

Does God Care That Much?

1 Kings 14-15:24; Acts 10:1-23; Psalm 133:1-3; Proverbs 17:7-8 (click to read)

(Acts 10) 2 Cornelius was a very religious man. He worshiped God, and so did everyone else who lived in his house. He had given a lot of money to the poor and was always praying to God. 3 One afternoon at about three o'clock, Cornelius had a vision. He saw an angel from God coming to him and calling him by name.

I regularly talk with people who are going through difficult struggles. Of course, we all have these conversations. The believers sometimes struggle with feelings that God is not responding or not leading. There are very difficult times for all of us. What we are to decide and how God will deliver resources - these questions really cause us anxiety. Yet, the Bible and Jesus are clear that He knows, that He cares, that He is at work "for the good of those called according to His Purpose." This story is one such example. I see this as Cornelius really working at knowing God, following God's instructions and trying to put himself in position to be encountered by God. And I must say, upon reflection, it seems Cornelius worked at connecting with God's will more than I do sometimes. So here - in these reading - the Lord arranges a special appointment between Cornelius and Peter; just the perfect conversation. Does God care that much about one Roman soldier and one seeking household? It seems the answer is "definitely" and in this story I will take comfort and instruction that I, too, might receive just what I need at the right time.

Lord - First I ask that You make clear to all seeking Your Help and Guidance that You love them and that You are at work for their best. Second, I ask that I seek You and do Your Will as well, that I might also receive just the help and input I need at the right time. Third, my I tell of Your Actions and speak Your Praises to those in need, in hurt or in confusion. 

(You can download the Pathway 2011 Bible reading list here.)