May 14, 2015: SOAP #1988:

Scripture: 1Thessalonians (NIV) 3:11 Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus clear the way for us to come to you.

Observation: From reading earlier in this chapter we can see the great love the Apostle Paul had for the believers living in the city of Thessalonica. He would have loved to come to visit them so he made it a matter of prayer. For the obstacles to be removed His travel plans would need to be authorized by the One in charge.

When I hear people begging for money to do the Lord’s work or making people feel guilty for not giving, I wonder who authorized that “ministry.” When a ministry is authorized by God and has His anointing, people will be glad for the privilege of giving. It is their joy to be a part of what they see God is doing.

Application: When I have God’s authorization for a matter, then I can trust Him to provide whatever is needed. His provision is the proof of His authorization. My faith for God’s provision increases when I know that I am in God’s will.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I can trust you to pay for what you authorize. Help me stay in the center of your will. Amen