An Everyday Theologian

As I sit here reflecting on matters of the heart, I recall some of life’s unpredictable turns for myself and those close to me: my husband, who became a heart patient at an early age, and my daughter, who now follows in his footsteps. Both rely on God’s common grace – God’s universal and undeserved goodness toward sinners. The human heart is a complex organ that beats nonstop, day in and day out, pumping life through our veins.

Our physical hearts can become overwhelmed and weary. In time, they wear out. Our emotional and spiritual hearts can also feel drained, reminding us of our inherent limitations. We are not self-sufficient; we rely entirely on God for the next heartbeat and breath in our lungs. Our dependence on Him is absolute. 

We all have weaknesses and limitations, both physical and otherwise. But in acknowledging them, we find a comforting truth. We can turn to God for help, knowing He can work through us and use our shortcomings. When we are saved, we see God’s strength becoming visible in us and the Holy Spirit working in a covenant relationship. This is the primary message of our salvation and sanctification, which leads to the most profound joys in life. Our identity is secure despite our limitations because of our union with Christ.

One of the most awe-inspiring distinctions between God and His creation is His aseity, derived from the Latin phrase ‘a sei’ meaning ‘from oneself.’ God is uncreated and self-sufficient, contrasting us, who are created, dependent, and derived. He exists in and of Himself without any need for anything else. This is the essence of God’s aseity, a quality that sets Him apart from us, making Him a unique and different kind of being. 

In Acts 17, the Apostle Paul gives a sermon. Paul’s confidence in Athens is based on his knowledge of God’s nature. He knows that God is self-sufficient and exists independently of the world. He is not dependent on humans and should not be confused with the created order. God is not one with the created order; instead, He is the Lord over it, as He is the Creator of the entire universe. 

After reflecting on the nature of God’s aseity and our limitations, we must remember the importance of turning to Him for help and guidance in our daily lives. Let us humbly acknowledge our weaknesses and rely entirely on God’s strength as we strive to live a life that honors Him. May we, with a renewed sense of devotion, deepen our relationship with Him and trust His sovereignty over all things.

“The God who made the world and everything in it—he is Lord of heaven and earth—does not live in shrines made by hands. Neither is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything since he gives everyone life and breath and all things.” – Acts 17:24-25