“For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.” — 2 Chronicles 16:9 (NKJV)

This verse gives great hope to those who are surrendered to God, to those who have made their choice, and seek to follow Jesus. 

In our nation there is the widely-held belief that we are such a great nation because God is on our side. Too many Christians understand this to mean that God is battling for us regardless of our relationship with Him. While it is certainly true that God always loves us, and wants what is best for us, it would be counter to this scripture to think that God is supporting us when we are not being loyal to Him. 

A far better, and I believe more accurate understanding, is that God is always on our side when we are on His side; when we are loyal to Him and His will for our lives, He is showing Himself strong on our behalf. When we expect God to be our refuge and protection without giving Him our worship and honor, we have Galatians 6:7 to convict us: “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” James 4:8 also calls us to “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” 

If we want the fullness of God’s presence and blessing, then we must treat Him with the respect that only He deserves.

As adults who have endured the chaos of life on this earth, we may sometimes become jaded toward those around us and also toward God. The remedy for this is found in Matthew 18:3 — “become as little children.” 

Little children (not teenagers) are always glad to be with their parents. Little children most want to be with those who love them most. 

In the game of “hide and go seek” that we have all played, little children can hardly keep quiet in their hiding place, as they are searched for. Often bursting out in laughter before they are discovered, they reveal to us how our relationship with God should be — THEY WANT TO BE FOUND!!! 

Do you want God to find you? 

He is looking…

The Rev. Bobby Thornhill is a retired pastor.