November 23, 2016: SOAP #2554:  Romans 1-4

Scripture:  Romans (NIV) 1:9 God, whom I serve with my whole heart in preaching the gospel of his Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you 10 in my prayers at all times; and I pray that now at last by God’s will the way may be opened for me to come to you.  11 I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong—12 that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.

Observation:   Paul has a yearning to meet his brothers and sisters in Christ who live in Rome. He wants to see them succeed.  He wants to see them grow.  He wants to see them strong.  He knows that he may have a part in their growth if he can just spend some time with them. Historically, some see evidence that Paul later got to Rome.  It is interesting to me to note that we have no cassette tape of his ministry there and no booklet of sermons preached when he was in Rome.  It is only in the delay of his going that we are blessed.  Out of a heart of concern, a heart of longing to see them, Paul writes this letter, which remains to bless us today!

Application:    May I learn to see delay as God does and may I be fruitful in my times of delay as was Paul.

Prayer:  Jesus, may I come to see you as the Lord of the Delay.  You are the Lord of my Delays.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!