February 8, 2016:  SOAP #2258:   

Scripture:  Acts (NIV) 15:36 Sometime later Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us go back and visit the brothers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing. … 40 but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. 41 He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

Observation:   Paul’s had love and concern for the people who had become believers during his first missionary journey.  He wanted to go back and visit them to see how they were doing.  After some disagreement with Barnabas about who to take with them, Paul chose Silas and headed out.

Application:   When God uses me in someone’s life, it is good to follow-up.  God can use me to review and re-emphasize what God previously did.  God can use me to further what He is doing in their lives.  God can use them to encourage me.

Prayer:   Lord, I know that you are sovereign and that many times you use someone else to follow-up on the ministry you used me to start.  I may plant the seed, a second person may water, and even a third bring in the harvest.  But when you give opportunity for me to follow-up, I pray that you find me useful, willing and joyful.   Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!