August 03, 2019: SOAP #3530:  Nahum 1-3; John 5

Scripture:  John (NIV) 5:6 When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time [38 years], he asked him, “Do you want to get well?” 7 “Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” 8 Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” 9 At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked.

Observation:   I noticed that the crippled man did not give Jesus a straight answer.  It was a “yes” or “no” question.  The man gave Jesus an excuse as to why he had not entered the healing water.

So many excuses place the blame on others.  Somebody else should be here to help me into the pool.  If only somebody would help me then I could do what God wants me to do.  Get close enough to the pool that you can fall in!

Application:  Waiting to do the will of God until someone else gives me the money, or provides what I think I need can leave me laying on the side for 38 long years.

I must start with what I have.  I am finding that God honors my faithfulness in using what I have.  Once I have stepped out in obedience, He provides for the next step!

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, forgive me for making excuses.  May I not waste another day waiting for someone else to join me in doing what you have given me to do.  See my using the little I have to do your will as faith that you will provide as need increases. Help me not to despise the little that I can do. Remind me that little is much when you are in it. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!