Reading Plan: Meet People Where They Are
Devotional: 3 of 11

“So Paul, standing in the midst of the Areopagus, said: “Men of Athens, I perceive that in every way you are very religious.” (Acts 17:22 ESV)

Meet People Where They Are - Tip #2: Finding The Positive In Every Mess

How do you see the world around you? Do you see the glass as half-full or half-empty? When you first meet someone, do you fixate on their flaws or their strengths? When an unexpected circumstance arises, do you think the sky is falling, or are you optimistic about the future? How we see the world around us goes a long way in shaping our ability to meet people right where they are in their mess. If we struggle to find even a small glimmer of positivity in a person, we will miss the opportunity to connect with them. From the very first words out of Paul’s mouth, he addresses the people of Athens with respect and compassion. The Holy Spirit moves Paul from being deeply disturbed by the idolatry of the people of Athens to delivering the gospel message of Jesus Christ in a way that is perfectly tailored to their current mess.

The greek word δεισιδαιμονέστερος (deisidaimonésteros) that translates “very religious” only appears this one time in the New Testament. Some scholars believe that in this verse, Paul is beginning his famous speech by attacking the superstitious beliefs of the people of Athens. However, other scholars believe, and I would agree, that Paul is sincere when he compliments the Athenians by saying that they are “very religious.” Paul is not trying to anger the people; instead, he highlights the positive in their mess. Paul makes a connection to their fear and reverence for a higher power, no matter how misguided it currently is. Paul then leverages this connection to guide the people to the one man, Jesus Christ, who truly deserves their worship.

Like Paul, God is calling you and me to find the positive in every person who crosses our path. Whether it is the homeless person we pass by on the way to work, the co-worker that drives us crazy, or the neighbor who looks, talks, and thinks differently than we do. If your default is to obsess on the negative, only seeing the flaws in people, today ask God to remap your heart and mind so that, like Paul, you can begin to see the positive in every mess.

To read more devotions based on the book of Acts click here.

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About the Author

Nathan Miller is a passionate follower of Jesus who strives to connect, surrender, and partner with Him on a daily basis. He is the founder of OnThe3rdDay, a resource created to help others more fully Live a Life On Mission For Jesus. Nathan is devoted to studying God's word, writing about following Jesus in today's culture, and discipling others who want to do the same.  He is also a husband, father, friend, mentor, ultra-marathon runner, NBA basketball enthusiast, fan of all things tech, and music lover. He lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with his wife and two kids, where they are involved in their local church, North Way Christian Community.