March 31, 2016: SOAP #2310:

Scripture: 1Corinthians (NIV) 16:8-9 But I will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost, because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me.

Observation: Paul did not interpret opposition to mean that he was out of God’s will and should be moving on. Paul saw opposition as a sign that he was where he was supposed to be and doing what he was supposed to do. He would stay in Ephesus. For Paul: opportunity + opposition + commitment = fruitful ministry. From this ministry came the book of Ephesians!

Application: If I am being effective doing God’s work, I should not be surprised if Satan works to hinder. He would love for me to get discouraged and quit or leave.

Prayer:   Lord, I pray that opposition will not hinder me from accomplishing your purposes for my life. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!