We were given the Scriptures to humble us into realizing that God is right, and the rest of us are just guessing. ~Rich Mullins
On that note, I vote we start where it all begins:
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 (NIV)
Absolutely incredible...the first verse and we are already learning so much about who God is!
A few characteristics that stand out to me:
- God already existed at the time the beginning was defined.
God existed before the concept of time was even created. This characteristic can be called the infinity of God, which might be defined as His existence outside of time. - God has the power to create.
Painters, sculptors, construction workers and every other person has the power to create something (paintings, statues, buildings, poetry, mashed potato volcanoes, etc), so we need to dive deeper to learn what God has the power to create. - God created the entire universe.
You might think I'm getting a little carried away, right? I mean, this verse just says God created the heavens and the earth. We haven't even gotten to the part about the stars or the ocean or the birds...
Seriously? This verse alone causes me to be amazed by our God! He created the expansive universe: something so incredibly beyond our understanding that scientists continue making new discoveries to this day!
Ok, so we have read one verse of the Bible, dove in deep and found a few main points to help us understand more about God and His character.
Now the really tough question: So?
This question is by no means intended to be sarcastic -- in all seriousness, what does this verse (and these points) truly mean with regard to my life and yours?
Most people, even those who have never attended church, probably know that Christians believe God created everything. That belief is by no means in question. My question is: What next? How do we let this knowledge of the awesomeness of God drastically influence our lives?
The biggest part, I believe, is constantly remembering (and being in awe of) the fullness of God's power -- He created everything! But how could that reminder affect your life?
Perhaps it could help you view an addiction differently. Could the Creator of the universe be stumped by your troubles and weaknesses? I think not! Nothing is impossible with God! Things will still be difficult, certainly, but what an incredible blessing to be reminded that nothing is impossible!
I can honestly say I understand that difficulty, for I regularly find myself caught in the fear of the future. As a planner at heart, I love laying things out from one step to the next so I can understand and follow it. God most certainly does not work that way. He has everything laid out, certainly, but in no way that I might know what it is and understand it! Some days I am greatly frustrated that I do not know God's plan for my life!
For me, this verse is an excellent reminder to trust every aspect of my life to God. He created the entire universe! Surely He can help me with my temper, strained friendships and my fears about the future (among everything else!).
What is God speaking to your heart through this verse? How can this sentence, and your renewed knowledge of Him, drastically impact your life? I would love to have you share your thoughts in the comments.
Remember, as you go on your way: God created everything for a purpose -- especially you!
Praise God!
