Deeper Still [Find God] Devotions Day 1

God Moves First

Devotional
Have you ever felt like you needed to get your life together before approaching God? Maybe you thought you had to stop certain habits, fix your attitude, or become a better person first. Here's the beautiful truth that changes everything: God doesn't wait for us to be perfect before He moves toward us. When we look at how God operates throughout Scripture, we see a consistent pattern... He takes the first step. He doesn't sit back waiting for us to earn His attention or prove our worthiness. Instead, He actively pursues us right where we are, in whatever condition we are in. This truth should bring incredible relief to anyone who has ever felt too broken, too messy, or too far gone for God's love. You don't have to clean up your act first. You don't have to have all the answers or overcome every struggle. God's love isn't conditional on your performance... it's based on His character. Think about the most loving relationships in your life. The people who truly care about you don't wait for you to be perfect before they show love. They love you through your struggles, mistakes, and growth. How much more does our heavenly Father, who created us and knows us completely, love us unconditionally? This doesn't mean our choices don't matter or that we shouldn't strive to grow. Rather, it means that growth happens within the safety of God's love, not as a prerequisite for it. When we understand that God has already moved toward us, it frees us to respond with gratitude rather than fear, with openness rather than shame.

Bible Verse
When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. - Romans 5:6

Reflection Question
What areas of your life have you been trying to 'fix' before approaching God, and how might it feel different to know He's already moving toward you in those very areas?

Quote
God doesn't wait for us to be in a perfect place spiritually before he moves towards us.

Prayer
Father, thank You for not waiting for me to be perfect before loving me. Help me to receive Your love as it is... unconditional and freely given. Give me the courage to stop trying to earn what You've already offered. Amen.