We need each other

7-31-2014      Acts 22:11-15

S.       10 And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do.11 And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.12 And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there,13 Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him.14 And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth.15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.

O.      Paul is led blind into Damascus and Ananias comes to heal and instruct him.

A.      God will use others to instruct us, to teach us and to bring to light his will. We need each other in this struggle to spread the gospel.

P.       Father in Heaven; bring your children together. Make us as one mighty army as we spread the word. Our world is falling apart, destroying itself and most people have never heard the message of Christ. Help me to walk in unity. Amen.

Instructions Please!

7-30-2014      Acts 22:9-10

S.       9 And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me.10 And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do.

O.      The light of God surrounds Paul and his company and he asks, “What shall I do, Lord”.

A.      I must ask God for instruction each and every day.

P.       Father; what would you have me to do today, where should I go, what should I say? Lead me by your Holy Spirit to do your perfect will. Amen.  

Lost Souls

7-28-2014      Acts 21:40

S.       40 And when he had given him licence, Paul stood on the stairs, and beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a great silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying,

O.      Paul begins his speech to the Jews in the Hebrew tongue.

A.      With his life in danger Paul still wants to explain his conversion. He wants everyone to understand his faith. He is more concerned for the souls of others than for his own life. I want to have this same type of devotion and dedication to others.

P.       Father; I want to share my faith, even to people that disagree with me. I need to love others more than I love myself. Teach me this level of love. Amen. 

I will Not be HURT!

7-27-2014      Acts 21:37-39

S.       37 And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief captain, May I speak unto thee? Who said, Canst thou speak Greek? 38Art not thou that Egyptian, which before these days madest an uproar, and leddest out into the wilderness four thousand men that were murderers?39But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people.

O.      The captain holding Paul finds out that he has the wrong man in custody. Paul still wants to speak to the very people that have hurt him.

A.      We must communicate with people if they are to learn who we really are. We must not lose our compassion and love for the ones that have hurt us.

P.       Father; cleanse my heart and mind of thoughts of retribution towards those that have hurt me. Teach me how to communicate love and forgiveness to each one. May people see more of you in me! Amen.

Gossip

7-25-2014      Acts 21:25-

S.       25 As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication.26 Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.27 And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him,28 Crying out, Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all men every where against the people, and the law, and this place: and further brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place.29 (For they had seen before with him in the city Trophimus an Ephesian, whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)30 And all the city was moved, and the people ran together: and they took Paul, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut.

O.      The Jerusalem elders declare their understanding of the status of gentile believers. Paul begins his days of cleansing (under Jewish law). The Temple is shut and a mob tries to kill Paul based on rumors and lies.

A.      All too often we react to information before we know the facts. Information can be wrong, out of context and even miss-spoken. The source of the information is the matter in question. Very reliable people, good people, honest people and even Christians will “share” information that is later found to be incorrect. Second hand information is usually the information that is incorrect.

P.       Father; Guard my lips that they speak only the things I have seen with my own eyes. Grant me discernment to know when to speak and when to keep silent. Amen.   

The Will of God

7-22-2014      Acts 21:14

S.       14 And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.

O.      Paul will not turn from his path to Jerusalem even though he knows that prison and maybe even death are ahead. God’s will was more important than personal comfort.

A.      This says that God has a will for my life! I will seek to learn that will and obey it. I know that the Bible says that it is God’s will that I be “born again” (saved, confessing my sin and abandoning sin’s practices) and I have. It says; I should love God and my fellow man, take up “my” cross and follow Jesus, I do that also. There must be more, some special things that I alone am called to do. I will seek this out.

P.       Father; I seek to do your will. Lead me this day to do your will, no matter the cost. Holy Spirit, fill me to the full, open my mind and show me God’s will and warn me if I stray. Amen.

Spirit led

7-21-2014      Acts 21:1-13

S.       1 And it came to pass, that after we were gotten from them, and had launched, we came with a straight course unto Coos, and the day following unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara:2 And finding a ship sailing over unto Phoenicia, we went aboard, and set forth.3 Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden.4 And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.5 And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we were out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.6 And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they returned home again.7 And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.8 And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.9 And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.10 And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.11 And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.12 And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.13 Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.

O.      Paul is on his final journey to Jerusalem where he will be arrested and sent to Rome. He visits with followers of the Christian way as he makes this trip. In most places the Spirit reveals the up-coming difficulty for Paul. Paul declares his faith to all.

A.      The Holy Spirit will prepare our heart for the work of Christ. Why do we try to do this work without the leadership of the Holy Spirit? We must rely completely, trust completely and obey completely the Spirit, lest our labor be in vain and our life a waste.

P.       Father; I empty myself before you this day and I surrender my mind, soul and heart to your perfect will. Fill me with your spirit. Reveal your plan for this day and I will obey. Use me Lord to gather souls. Amen.  

No Pain

7-20-2014      Acts 20:36-38

S.       36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,38 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

O.      Paul is leaving, for the last time, his friends and going to Jerusalem. This is the cause of great sorrow.

A.      Separation brings in heavy hearts, tears, and sorrow. Love that binds us together will never disappear from our hearts and minds even when we are miles apart. One of the great joys of Heaven……no separation….ever. The more we love, the more separation hurts.

P.       Father; wash all my sin away. If sin separates me from you, I hate sin, I denounce sin and I open myself to your presence that I may live forever in your Grace and never be separated from you. Amen.

Give to the poor.

7-19-2014      Acts 20:35

S.       35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

O.      Honest words about meeting the needs of others and the ultimate word on giving.

A.      Supporting the weak is more than money. Weakness comes to us when we are afraid, lonely and hurt. Supporting people in these times is just as important as filling their bellies. I will attempt to be there for the ones that are in these difficult times.

P.       Father; I see hurting people in every direction I look. I see hungry people in every direction I look. Guide me by your Holy Spirit in all my efforts to help and support. I am overwhelmed and inadequate for the task. I need you Father to fill me up and then pour me out. Amen.

Work

7-18-2014      Acts 20:33-34

S.       33 I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.34 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.

O.      Paul describes his view of labor and reward.

A.      Working to meet our need is the normal course life. Paul also meets the needs of others and so should I. Many are unable to work and earn a living. God would have me to help those around me. Christians share!

P.       Father; strengthen my ability to work and direct me in my giving. Help me to be an example, like Paul, in my giving and in my compassion. Amen.

Motives

7-17-2014      Acts 20:28-32

S.       28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

O.      Paul starts with instruction to “feed” the church and ends with a warning. The warning is about self-serving men with impure motives.

A.      What is my motive in this ministry? I must examine my motives and keep them aligned with God’s word. I am sure that the best motive is love, love of God and love of my fellow man.

P.       Father; teach me of your love and clean my heart of all selfish motives. Amen.   

The counsel of God.

7-16-2014      Acts 20:25-27

S.       25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.26 Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.

O.      Paul says goodbye and declares that he has taught them everything he could.

A.      It is wise to share our knowledge with each other. Missing elements are brought to light and memory is awakened. I will share all I know about God and his love.

P.       Father; I rededicate myself to the spreading of the gospel. Help me to remember all I have learned and to listen to my brethren and learn. Amen.

No Fear

7-15-2014      Acts 20:24

S.       24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

O.      Paul will not be moved by the fear of death from his faith in God.

A.      Fear is a tool of satan. He attempts to divert the believer from following God. I will turn my thoughts to God, believe the Bible and keep my victory.

P.       Father; open the eyes of my understanding that I may see every trick of my enemy. I put my trust in you Lord and I seek to honor you in all my ways. Amen.

Dead Boy

7-13-2014      Acts 20:4-12

S.       4 And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.5 These going before tarried for us at Troas.6 And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.7 And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.8 And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.9 And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.10 And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.11 When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.12 And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.

O.      Paul’s travels bring to Troas where he preaches so long that Eutychus falls asleep and is killed by his fall from a high window. Eutychus is brought back to life and the miracle brings great comfort to the church. Many people are traveling with Paul through Asia, leaders and men of good standing from churches newly established. These men are being trained in the ministry “on the job”.

A.      Working together will make us better. I must teach and learn from my fellow Christians. It is not just about me and what I am. It is about us and who we are. God gives us these examples of unity and fellowship to show us the proper way to live. We are to be parts of the whole, not isolated, not independent, not loaners or islands.

P.       Father; teach me how to pull people together, to grow, to produce and live as one being fully dedicated to worship, fellowship and to saving the lost. I need others and God I need you. Teach me Lord. Amen.

Unity and Fellowship

7-12-2014      Acts 20:1-3

S.       1 And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia.2 And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece, 3 And there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.

O.      Paul leaves Ephesus after the uproar and travels back to the churches of Macedonia. Paul gives comfort and instruction unto these churches.

A.      The benefit of fellowship and mutual aid (both physical and spiritual) should not be overlooked. From the very beginning; Christians have banded together, learned from each other, shared their substance and remained part of each other’s lives. This type of relationship is needed now more than ever. Satan easily overcomes the person who is isolated.

P.       Father; bring me into perfect fellowship with you and lead me, teach me and bring me into fellowship with other Christians. Help me to open my heart to others and embrace their fellowship. Amen.   

Legal Defense

7-11-2014      Acts 19:21-41

S.       21 After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome.22 So he sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him, Timothy and Erastus; but he himself stayed in Asia for a season.23 And the same time there arose no small stir about that way.24 For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto the craftsmen;25 Whom he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said, Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have our wealth.26 Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands:27 So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth.28 And when they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.29 And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre.30 And when Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not.31 And certain of the chief of Asia, which were his friends, sent unto him, desiring him that he would not adventure himself into the theatre.32 Some therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly was confused; and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together.33 And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defence unto the people.34 But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.35 And when the townclerk had appeased the people, he said, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Jupiter?36 Seeing then that these things cannot be spoken against, ye ought to be quiet, and to do nothing rashly.37 For ye have brought hither these men, which are neither robbers of churches, nor yet blasphemers of your goddess.38 Wherefore if Demetrius, and the craftsmen which are with him, have a matter against any man, the law is open, and there are deputies: let them implead one another.39 But if ye enquire anything concerning other matters, it shall be determined in a lawful assembly.40 For we are in danger to be called in question for this day's uproar, there being no cause whereby we may give an account of this concourse.41 And when he had thus spoken, he dismissed the assembly.

O.      Christians are brought into conflict with the silversmiths of Ephesus and the riot is calmed by the Town Clerk.

A.      As we go about spreading the gospel we may encounter opposition. We must be instructed by the Holy Ghost as to our reactions and responses. God may use many different methods, as he did here, to remedy our troubles. I will trust in the Lord.

P.       Father; I will lean on you in my times of trouble to guide my reactions and to bring about my remedy. I trust in your Spirit to guide my steps and fill my mind and mouth. Save me, Lord, Amen.

Don't Lie

7-10-2014      Acts 19:18-20

S.       18 And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds.19 Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver.20 So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.

O.      Conversion brought about public repentance and the destruction of items affiliated with the former lifestyle. A true and public response as proof of a change in the life of a believer is always needed.

A.      A change in the life of a person who becomes a believer normal, almost required. Without change how will anyone know that a conversion has taken place? Not all change is instant. Some people change over a period of time (Sanctification) but “all” do change!

P.       Father: expose my life to anyone who will, or may be, converted and follow Jesus. I put my trust in you Lord to guide my steps in the paths of righteousness…that others may see, and believe. Amen.

No Faith---No Results

7-9-2014         Acts 19:13-17

S.       13 Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.14 And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so.15 And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?16 And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.17 And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.

O.      Non-believers are trying to perform miracles and find that they have no power or authority. This failure causes many to change their mind concerning Jesus.

A.      Everything of a divine nature must begin and end with Jesus. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”. I will seek to have Jesus as the very center of my life rather than someone I have only heard “about”.

P.       Father; wash all my sin away, I confess, I repent and I seek to have his redeeming blood cover me both inside and out. Use me today to help others in their walk and lead me to one that has never heard the words of life. Amen.

Special Miracles

7-8-2014         Acts 19:11-12

S.       11 And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul:12 So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.

O.      Here we see a unique reference to miracles and evil spirits. Most miracles are referenced at the touch of hand, from one person to another; these are carried to the needy by a surrogate method.

A.      God is not limited by method or man’s understanding. If there is a need and faith is applied then method should be of minor importance. Our confidence should rest in God, not method.

P.       Father; increase my faith in all things concerning healing and deliverance. Use me as your ambassador, your vessel, your servant. May many be healed and delivered and may the focus always be on you Lord and not me, or the miracles. You are the giver of life, health, joy, peace, and salvation. Come among us to heal and deliver today. Amen.  

Opposition

7-7-2014         Acts 19:8-10

S.       8 And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.9 But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.10 And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.

O.      Paul moves the church members into a local school after members of the synagogue denounce the message of Jesus. All Asia is exposed to the gospel message.

A.      Paul did not rise up in anger and fight for his “rights”. He simply moved away from the opposition and continued to spread the gospel. Some will hear and accept and some will reject our message. Some will even try to stop the message altogether. We must never become discouraged or afraid because of opposition. Opposition is a sure sign that something is stirring the pot. The devil never fights with the ones on his side!

P.       Father; thank you for showing me Paul’s example. I will keep looking for people that will accept this wonderful message and not waste time with the rejecters.  Give me discernment to identify your children and wisdom to minister to their needs. Amen.

Tongues

7-6-2014         Acts 19:1-7

S.       1 And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,2 He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.3 And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.7 And all the men were about twelve.

O.      At Ephesus believers were re-baptized in water and received the Holy Ghost by the hands of Paul. These spoke with tongues (UN-learned language) just as the disciples did on the Day of Pentecost.  Another event where people who were already believers (saved) received the Holy Ghost and spoke in tongues as at the birth of the church. This is a pattern of: first a believer, then a subsequent event of receiving the Holy Ghost and speaking in tongues.

A.      I will teach the ones that I am ministering to of this “event” and that when this “event” takes place, speaking in tongues is a part of the event. The Holy Ghost Baptism is accompanied with Speaking in Tongues.

P.       Father; thank you for the simple truth of your word. Help me to teach this truth to as many as possible. Use me as you used Paul. Amen.

Keeping in Touch

7-5-2014         Acts 18:18-28

S.       18 And Paul after this tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow.19 And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.20 When they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not;21 But bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will. And he sailed from Ephesus.22 And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up, and saluted the church, he went down to Antioch.23 And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.24 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.27 And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:28 For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.

O.      Paul is caring for all the churches and all the believers in several places. Apollos is instructed and trained. Paul continues to reach out to many Jews and teach them that Jesus is the “Christ” that they are looking for.

A.      Helping other Christians and holding other Christians up is a vital part of being a man of God. I will do my part to help as many as I can, as long as I can and be like Paul. Life is full of battles that leave us weary worn and sad. I will praise the Lord in, and through them all.

P.       Father; guide my steps today to the ones that I can help, to the ones that I can lift up and encourage. I praise you, I exalt you. You are worthy of all Glory, Majesty, and Honor. Amen.

Back in Court

7-4-2014         Acts 18:12-17

S.       12 And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,13 Saying, This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law.14 And when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you:15 But if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters.16 And he drave them from the judgment seat.17 Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things.

O.      This legal complaint is thrown out of court and backfires on the Jews.

A.      Christians are to serve God and trust him, even when it might bring us into a courtroom. In ages past many Christians gave their lives as martyrs to stay true to God. These things (in a form) may come to pass again. I must keep myself “unspotted” from the world. My testimony must be true.

P.       Father; on this day of freedom give me boldness to declare to anyone and everyone how you have made me free from sin through the death and resurrection of Jesus. The cross is my “Statue of Liberty” and if I should be brought into a courtroom for my faith give me the words of faith that will declare your Grace, Mercy and Love for fallen humanity. Amen.    

Staying Put

7-3-2014         Acts 18:9-11

S.       9 Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:10 For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.

O.      In this time of difficulty Paul received a vision that encouraged him to keep going. He remained in this difficult place for 18 months.

A.      God will encourage us in times of difficulty. We should not run from adversity. We should seek God for a fresh “vision” and courage to stay put and win souls.

P.       Father; give me a fresh vision for Tolar, Texas, Hood County, North Texas, America and the whole world. Let me see “beyond the four walls” of my church. Amen.

Hard Days

7-2-2014         Acts 18:5-8

S.       5 And when Silas and Timothy were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.6 And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.7 And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue.8 And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.

O.      Paul reaches out to the Jews first but they will not accept the message. Here Paul declares that he will go to the Gentiles. The Corinthian church is established in the home of Justus.

A.      We must continue to try and reach people that appear to be against our message. As long as there is life there is hope. Our efforts may be rejected and even opposed but we must never give up on anybody. We must endure to the end of our days. Leading people to Jesus is worth any effort.

P.       Father in Heaven; relieve my pain and worry and replace these with joy and peace. The task seems too large and the load too heavy. I will step out in faith to declare your word. Open the doors of opportunity for this day and please be waiting on the other side of each door to guide my steps. Amen. Lord; please keep the family of my dear friend Ray close to your heart today. You called him home to be with you yesterday. We all know that he is with you but there is still sorrow and pain in our hearts at his passing. Help us to be strong for each other. Amen.

Friends

7-1-2014         Acts 18:1-4

S.       1 After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;2 And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.3 And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.4 And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.

O.      In Corinth Paul joins together with Aquila and his wife Priscilla……and the work goes on.

A.      It is a great blessing to have help and fellowship with others. I am grateful for all the people that I have had the privilege of knowing and working alongside.  I learn, I grow and I even rest because of these wonderful men and women of God. I am blessed.

P.       Father: Thank you for all my friends. Please send special blessings to each of them today. Send them a double portion of joy, a double portion of peace and remind them of how much they are loved. Amen.