God's Good Gifts

Day 173: Acts 14:8-28

"Yet he did not leave himself without witness, for he did good by giving you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, satisfying your hearts with food and gladness.” - Acts 14:17 ESV

Speaking to an utterly pagan audience, Paul breaks down the reality of God's grace in our lives, even if we are living in ignorant rebellion. There is no good thing that doesn't come from God (see James 1:17). God's goodness and favor are not just limited to those who have been regenerated by the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus is also showing great care for those who have yet to say "yes" to His saving power.

What a great thought to pass through our minds as we turn to share the message of Jesus' love with those we encounter. We need to remind them of how good God has been to them, giving life and provision, even though they've been rejecting Him.

God sustaining this world and those that live in it is one of His most outstanding witnesses of love.

Dennis Gaertner says it so well: "Provisions of divine providence were thus a testimony to God’s goodness." Gaertner, D. (1995). Acts (Ac 14:14–18)

Sure, because of sin, this place isn't perfect. There is death, sickness, pain, hate, apathy, injustice, and many more ugly things; but we can't let them distract us from the miracle of our continued existence on earth.

God has given us the witness. Now it's time for us to call it to the attention of those who are lost without hope: "Remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ." - Ephesians 2:12-13 ESV