Devotional
Many of us live our lives surrounded by the trappings of success. From the outside, everything looks perfect – good job, nice home, loving family. Yet inside, we may be wrestling with a deep sense of emptiness. This was Jacob’s story. Despite his wealth and possessions, something was missing. Jacob had spent his life chasing after validation and blessing from his earthly father. He manipulated, schemed, and deceived to get what he wanted. But all his achievements left him hollow, because he was looking for fulfillment in the wrong places. God doesn’t want us to simply exist in His atmosphere – attending church, knowing about Him, or even enjoying spiritual experiences. He desires something much deeper and more transformative: a personal encounter with Him that changes us from the inside out. Like Jacob, many of us live in a ‘God atmosphere’ without experiencing the life-changing power of a personal encounter with the living God. We know about Him, but we don’t truly know Him. We enjoy being around the things of God, but we haven’t wrestled with Him personally. Today, consider whether you’re living in the atmosphere of God or if you’ve had a genuine encounter with Him that has transformed your life. The difference is everything.
Bible Verse
“That night Jacob got up and took his two wives, his two female servants and his eleven sons and crossed the ford of the Jabbok.” – Genesis 32:22
Reflection Question
In what areas of your life might you be settling for a ‘God atmosphere’ rather than pursuing a personal encounter with Him?
Quote There is a difference between living in a God atmosphere and having a personal encounter with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Prayer
Lord, I don’t want to merely exist in Your atmosphere. I want to know You personally. Help me move beyond surface-level spirituality to experience a life-changing encounter with You. Reveal Yourself to me in new and deeper ways. Amen.