November 19, 2019: SOAP #3638:  Matthew 1-4

Scripture:  Matthew (NIV) 4:18 As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” 20 At once they left their nets and followed him. (also verses 21 and 22)

Observation:  Jesus was looking for some key individuals to be His disciples. He did not open an office in the local synagogue where He could manage His ministry and call in people for interviews. He did not go to a job agency to find people needing a job. He did not put an ad in the local newspaper or post a note on a local bulletin board. He went “walking beside the Sea of Galilee.” He went where people were busy working their normal jobs.

I recall my first job in the church was a volunteer janitor.  I remember sweeping the floor, emptying the trash cans, cleaning the restrooms.  Then while still in High School, I was assigned to teach a class of junior boys.

Application:  If you want God to use you, get started doing what is available—what you see that needs to be done.  I remember Sam Sasser teaching us the first law of guidance is motion.  In other words, you cannot turn a parked car.  To turn a car, you must get it moving.

Have you ever wondered why someone was not doing a anything about an obvious need?  Could it be that God is bringing it to your attention because He wants to work through you to fulfill that need?  Add it to your daily prayer list.  Get started doing something.  A wonderful challenge is in store for you as He moves through you!  He may use that ministry to bring into view and prepare you for another ministry just for you.

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, forgive me for ignoring opportunities you have brought my way to serve you and your church.  Find me faithful, I pray.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!