January 28, 2016:  SOAP #2247:   

Scripture:  Acts (NIV) 4:18 Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John replied, “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. 20 For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”

Observation:   Peters response was not that they were being asked to do something they would not do, but something they could not do.  What they knew about their risen Lord could not be locked inside.  It became a part of their everyday life and conversation.  They definitely were going to be talking about Jesus!   They had something on the inside that could not be kept a secret!

Application:   The more I know Jesus, the more I talk about Him.  He fills my heart, my mind, my mouth.  He fills my days with an awareness of His presence.  I see Him everywhere!  I find that I not only talk to Him, but I talk to others with an awareness that He is present, listening, and being a part of the conversation.
Prayer:   Lord, what a joy to be filled with your Holy Spirit! You walk with me and you talk with me. It is impossible to keep you hidden inside my life.  I want you to make yourself known through me.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!