DAY 10: KNOWING GOD BY THE SPIRIT
by Pastor Heiden Ratner
Jan. 14th, 2026
“The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything.” –Acts 17:24–25
DEVOTION
Imagine standing in plain sight of one of the most breathtaking structures ever built—the Parthenon in Athens, Greece. Built in the 5th century BCE, you can still visit its ruins today on the Acropolis. It was dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of the city. In the 5th century BCE, it stood as a symbol of worship and devotion, drawing people from far and wide.
Now picture the apostle Paul nearby at the Areopagus (Mars Hill), proclaiming Jesus to a city full of idols. Midway through his address he drops this truth bomb:
“The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man.” — Acts 17:24
That would’ve stunned them. No wonder they said, “You bring some strange things to our ears” (Acts 17:20). If God doesn’t live in temples made by human hands… where does He dwell?
Scripture gives a beautiful two-fold answer.
First, God reigns on high—Lord of heaven and earth, unlimited and uncontained (Psalm 103:19).
Second, through Christ, God comes near. He dwells in His people by His Spirit. Everyone who repents and believes in Jesus is given the promised Holy Spirit, who seals us as God’s own (Ephesians 1:13). What an amazing reality: God doesn’t live in temples made by man, but He does live in people made by Him.
Jesus teaches in John 14–16 that the Holy Spirit comforts, counsels, helps, convicts the world of sin, and reminds His people of truth, all while glorifying Christ. Through the Spirit, we don’t just know about God—we know God personally and daily.
That’s why Paul writes:
“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” — Galatians 5:16
We don’t merely acknowledge the Spirit—we learn to walk with Him. As we do, He leads us, shapes us, and makes us more like Jesus. So ask yourself:Does the Spirit dwell in you? If not, the invitation is open—turn to Jesus, trust Him as Lord and Savior, and ask the Father to fill you.
“How much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” — Luke 11:13
This is what the Athenians needed to hear—and it’s what we need today. More of Him and less of us. Let’s deny ourselves and walk by the Spirit, attentive to His voice and following His lead.
“Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit… So glorify God in your body.” — 1 Corinthians 6:19–20
PRAYER
Father, thank You that You are Lord of heaven and earth—uncontained and unmatched. Thank You that through Jesus You have come near and filled Your people by Your Spirit. Holy Spirit, lead me today. Convict me where I’m off, strengthen me where I’m weak, and help me obey Your promptings quickly. Help me glorify Christ in my thoughts, words, and actions. In Jesus’ name, amen!
NEXT STEP
Pray today: “Holy Spirit, lead me.” Throughout today obey the promptings you sense—whether to repent, encourage someone, share your faith, serve, or resist temptation.
