October 18, 2019: SOAP #3606:  Job 3-4; Acts 8-9

Scripture:  Acts (NIV) 8:1 And Saul was there, giving approval to his death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. 2 Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. 3 But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison. 4 Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.

Observation:   Being scattered was not a pleasant ordeal for the early Christians to endure.  But they did not become bitter and complain about the terrible way they were being treated.  What they had with Jesus in their heart was much greater than what was in the homes they were forced to leave.

They considered their permanent heavenly home of greater value than their temporary earthly dwelling.  Wherever they went they spoke of the great treasure waiting for them.  Jesus had left and the Holy Spirit had taken over His ministry.  These disciples became the living proof of Jesus life!

Application:  When circumstances force me to relocate, I want to be so full of Jesus and His joy that any complaining will be replaced with joyful anticipation. If sickness causes my earthly body to be confined in a hospital room, may the faith of my heavenly life spread the news to everyone who enters my hospital room.  If a bad business endeavor results in bankruptcy, may the contentment and faith of my heavenly life cause me to tell banker and lawyer of my great Heavenly Advocate!

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, in good times and bad times you remain worthy of my praise! May you always shine through my circumstances.     Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!