Good Morning Everyone,
Our theme for this month: “Enthusiasm”
Our Bible verse for today: “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.” 2 Chronicles 16:9 (NIV)
Our thought for today: “Come near to God and God will come near to you.”
While conducting research in preparation to write his book “Finding God in Unexpected Places” author Philip Yancey observed a historical pattern which really shouldn’t surprise us. As Philip traced the spread of Christianity around the world, looking to discover where, and how, and why God was showing up in the most profound and biggest ways, he discovered that God seems to go where He is wanted the most.
In countries like Haiti, where the followers of Christ are passionate about their relationship with Him, the church is on-fire and there is a great spiritual awakening spreading across their land. In China, where Christians are so committed to the cause of Christ that they persevere in the face of intense government opposition, and pastors aren’t considered fully qualified until they have spent at least three years in prison for their faith, the church is flourishing. There are more Christians in China today than in any country on earth.
The highly developed and affluent nations of the Western world (the USA, Canada, Europe, etc) represent less than 35% of the Christian community worldwide. More than 65% of all Christians are somewhere other than here. And, the greatest works of God, the most profound and obvious evidence of His presence and power, is found over there not over here.
God goes where He is wanted.
I’m convinced that what is true for nations is also true for individuals. God goes where He is wanted. He shows up in big ways in the lives of those who want Him the most and who put the most time and effort into cultivating their relationship with Him.
2 Chronicles 16:9 reveals a great truth. God searches the world over for those whose hearts are truly hungry for Him and He then enters their lives in big ways, strengthening them, working in them (and working through them).
Give your heart completely to God and then be prepared for a mighty work of God in your life. God goes where He is wanted. How much do you want Him in your life?
God Bless,
Pastor Jim
Oak Hill Baptist Church 