Not a Salesman

Acts 14:15-17 

“Men! Why are you doing these things? We are men also, with the same nature as you, and we are proclaiming good news to you, that you should turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and everything in them. In past generations He allowed all the nations to go their own way, although He did not leave Himself without a witness, since He did good: giving you rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, and satisfying your hearts with food and happiness.”

HAVE YOU EVER GONE INTO A DEPARTMENT STORE to look for a new pair of jeans, and about five steps in encounter an overeager sales clerk asking you, “Is there anything I can help you with today?”

What causes us to be so hesitant to take them up on their offer? Is it because we genuinely don’t want any help at all in the process of locating and purchasing jeans? Or is it because we’re afraid that the sales clerk is more interested in padding her commission check than helping us find a pair that fits right?

This dilemma is a regular occurrence in our fallen world. We struggle to discern what others’ intentions are. Do they really want to help with something, or do they simply want to receive something in return? Compare this feeling to when a friend offers to go along and help. It is easier to accept a friend’s help because you generally know his motives.

What about the conversations and relationship you have with God? Do you ever wonder about His intentions for us? Do you ever question your intentions for Him?

God does not hide His intentions. He intends for us to worship and obey Him. He gave us the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in it to enjoy so that we might come to know Him. He gives us rain and food to sustain our physical needs. He gave His only Son to die on a cross to purchase our salvation. He has met and continues to meet every one of our needs so that we understand and accept the truth of the Gospel.

God’s intentions are crystal clear. He created us, this world, and everything in it so that we might know Him and make Him known.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

▷ Why do we so often question other people’s intentions? 

▷ Have you ever questioned God’s intentions for your life? Why or why not?

▷ When you approach God in prayer, what are your intentions? Are you more sales person or friend?