By Dr. Al Hearne II

God's creative power is active in our lives. Colossians 1:16-17 reads, "For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together." The depth of this reality is beautifully articulated in Gabelein's assertion, "all truth is God's truth" (The Pattern of God's Truth). Why? Because God’s truth is what keeps everything working in this world.

God's creative power established everything in our world. Notice how, in this passage, the scope of creation is not just the physical world that can be seen. God's creation includes everything in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, from thrones and dominions to rulers and authorities. God's creative power is comprehensive of everything that exists. All creation, whether in heaven or on earth, finds its ultimate meaning and fulfillment in Christ.

Understanding that God created all things through Christ and for Christ forms the foundation of our purpose. Our lives find ultimate meaning and fulfillment in Christ when we work to glorify God. This truth challenges us to align our pursuits, decisions, and ambitions to glorify God while we live in Christ. "All truth is God's truth" implies that the essence of our existence and the pursuit of truth throughout all areas of our life ultimately lead us back to our creator: God.

Practically speaking, recognizing God's role as the sustaining force behind all creation shapes our worldview. It means that every facet of our lives, whether mundane or monumental, should be directed toward glorifying God. We must know our purpose: to find meaning and fulfillment in Christ as we glorify God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 reminds us, "Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." Everything we do must bring glory to God because God is holding everything together as our creator. All of life must be spent working to bring glory to God.

So, when we study, it is not merely to acquire knowledge but to discover the wonders of God's creation and to reflect His glory in our pursuit of truth. When we work, it is not merely to earn a living but to contribute to the unfolding story of God's ongoing creation. Even in moments of fun and play, we are called to glorify God, recognizing that He is the source of joy and creativity.

The practical application is a holistic dedication of our lives to God. It acknowledges that our identity, purpose, and fulfillment are intricately woven into God's creation. By living intentionally for the glory of God, we align ourselves with the truth that in Him, all things hold together. Our lives become a testimony to the Creator, who brought everything into existence and actively sustains and holds it together.

Take a moment and reflect upon your life as a testimony to God, who created it. In what ways can your actions and attitudes bear witness to the truth that in Him, all things hold together? In what ways can you live out the biblical principle of doing everything for the glory of God?

 

Gabelein, F. (1985). The Pattern of God's Truth: The Integration of Faith and Learning. BMH Books.

[The oil painting, "God's Creative Power Is Active In Our Lives" was created using DALL-E.]