Seek God Now
Scripture:"Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near." - Isaiah 55:6
Devotional Thoughts
The story of Lazarus and the rich man is a solemn reminder of the urgency of seeking God while we have the opportunity. In Luke 16:19-31, we read of a rich man who lived in luxury and a poor man named Lazarus who sat at his gate, covered in sores. When they both died, their situations were reversed. Lazarus was comforted in Abraham's bosom, while the rich man found himself in torment. The rich man cried out for relief, but it was too late. He realized that his opportunity to seek God had passed, and now there was a great chasm that could not be crossed.
The rich man’s plea for even a drop of water to cool his tongue is a stark illustration of the reality of regret. It reminds us that there comes a time when seeking God is no longer possible—when our choices on earth have eternal consequences. The time to seek God is now, while we are still alive and have the chance to know Him. After death, the decision is final, and there is no opportunity for repentance.
God is merciful and extends His grace to us every day. He invites us to come to Him, to receive His forgiveness, and to walk with Him. But His invitation is for a limited time—our lifetime. Today is the day to respond, to draw near, and to find His presence. We are reminded in Hebrews 3:15, "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts." There is an urgency to our seeking; we do not know what tomorrow holds, but we do know that God is offering Himself to us today.
Practical Reflections
Reflect on the rich man's story. He had everything in the world, yet in the end, he had nothing because he lacked a relationship with God. In contrast, Lazarus had nothing in this life, yet he gained everything in the next because of his faith. We need to ask ourselves: What are we prioritizing? Are we like the rich man, so engrossed in earthly pursuits that we neglect our spiritual well-being? Or are we seeking God while He can be found, knowing that He alone gives true life?
Today is an opportunity. If you have been distant from God or have never made a commitment to Him, this is the time. Don't let the distractions of life keep you from the most important decision you can make. Seek Him now while He is near. Pray, open your heart, and invite Him into your life. Remember, the door of grace is open now, but it won't always be.
Closing Thoughts
There is a moment when it will be too late to seek God. The rich man realized this truth too late, and his regrets could no longer change his fate. Let us be mindful of the time we have and make the most of it by seeking God earnestly. The opportunity to draw near to God is available today—let us not waste it. Seek Him while He may be found, and you will find the peace, hope, and salvation that only He can provide.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace and for the opportunity to seek You while You can be found. Help me not to take this time for granted, but to draw near to You with my heart. Remove anything that distracts me from pursuing You. I want to know You, to walk with You, and to be ready for eternity. Lead me, Lord, and help me to share Your love with those who have not yet found You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.