What moves you? Feelings? Something you see? Something you hear? It’s hard to answer that question without knowing what “move” means. Move how? Move us in what way? Move us emotionally to a place of compassion? Move us to tears because we feel someone else’s pain? Move us to action to defend honor or someone who is beaten down?
We are creative, emotional beings intricately wired to be moved. And then we react. Sometimes we’re moved out of love for someone. Sometimes the fight or flight response kicks in. Sometimes we’re not even sure why we’re moved but the overwhelming sense of movement in our spirit is undeniable.
So what do you think moves people to God?
In a perfect world we might expect that an abundance of wealth, the awesome bond of a deep love relationship, or the blessing of something wonderful and unexpected would draw people to God.
Surprisingly, in real life it rarely seems to be the good things that draw us to God.
When times are good, many people don’t see any need for God and so they ride the wave of prosperity, adventure, and passion as long as they can. But like all waves, at some point it comes crashing down or fades out around us.
It’s in these times of turmoil or emptiness that most people begin to wonder about God. When waves are crashing over us and we’re pulled down by the undertow. When the excitement of life fades away and the reality of our finite existence becomes clear.
What moves people toward God?
Guilt. Anxiety. Pain. Uncertainty. Helplessness. Hopelessness. Emptiness. Knowing we’re in over our head.
Times of crisis, intense pain and upheaval move us from a place of complacency and self-focus to realizing our desperate need of a Savior. If you’re in this place now, or if you know someone who is, please know this:
When you move toward God, He responds.
God is ready, willing and able to come to you and pull you above whatever your circumstances may be. He is the one and only Almighty God. The all-powerful. The all-knowing. The ever-present. He will not force anyone to come to Him. But when we do, He’s there.
What moves you to God?
Today is the day to start thinking about it. Don’t wait until the wave of crisis or depression crashes over you. Reach out to Him. Call to Him. Expect Him. And He’ll come in a mighty way.
“I lift my eyes up to the hills––where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.’” Psalm 121:1
May I pray?
Lord, when things are good we often take credit and continue on our own way without thinking about You. And even when things start to get dicey, our tendency is to turn to others instead of moving toward You. Today, God, we’re calling to You. We’re lifting our eyes to You and reaching out for help. Please come quickly. Please help us to see You clearly. In good times and in bad, help us to keep our eyes fixed on You. May we praise You in our circumstances because of the help You give us. Amen.
Q4U: What moves you to God?