October 23, 2019: SOAP #3611:  Job 13-14; Acts 17-18

Scripture:   Acts (NIV) 18:23 After spending some time in Antioch, Paul set out from there and traveled from place to place throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples.

Observation:   Paul had a traveling ministry.   He took all opportunities to tell about Jesus.  When there were believers in the area, he would meet with them to strengthen them in their faith.  The early church did not have Bibles but relied on the knowledge of their leaders and the traveling preachers.  Paul, with his great knowledge of the Old Testament, could build their faith that Jesus was indeed the promised Messiah.  And when he was in prison and not able to travel, he wrote the letters we have today.  In person, and by mail, he strengthened the church.   If it was available, surely Paul would have used email!     (Thank you, Missionary Ralph Hiatt for your great example of this ministry.)

Application:   In reading the scriptures for today, the Lord refreshing in my heart His assignment for Sharon and me.  As we move from place to place God will use us to encourage and strengthen believers and churches.  As Paul wrote to young Timothy to stir up the gift that was in him (2Timothy 1:6), so the Lord would use us to encourage senior saints to “stir up the gifts” that are in them.  We cannot allow them to settle to the bottom of our heart and be covered over by disappointment, discouragement, or self-pity.  The gifts of the Spirit are too valuable to be buried.  We must stir them up!   Senior citizens, as we move from place to place we must be about strengthening everyone around us.

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, use us for Your glory and the good of Your church.    Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!