February 01, 2020: SOAP #3712:  Exodus 30-32; Acts 8

Scripture:  Exodus (NIV) 31:1 Then the LORD said to Moses, 2 “See I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, 3 and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts—4 to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, 5 to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship. 6 Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to help him. Also, I have given skill to all the craftsmen to make everything I have commanded you:

Observation:  God had assigned Moses the task of building the tabernacle, a portable worship center for the Israelites while they were traveling in the wilderness.  God provided the plan for Moses, but not the skill, ability, and knowledge in working with the materials to be used.  Those were given to Bezalel and Oholiab.

It is a picture of a church.  God gives the vision to the pastor, but the skills needed to various members.  Each one must use the gifts God has given them and accept their limitations, knowing that God has given those gifts to others.

Application:   It is like this SOAP ministry.  Each day I write what God brings to my heart.  God has provided others to reach beyond my limitations.  Some forward them to people on their mailing list.   God has joined others with me to translate them into Bangla, Urdu, Hindi, Tegalu, and…   Some SOAPs have been used for devotional thoughts around campfires, in hospital rooms, as sermon starters, etc.…

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, you have given gifts to every believer to build the church today.  Find me faithful fulfilling the part that is given to me.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity! 

January 31, 2020: SOAP #3711:  Exodus 28-29; Acts 7

Scripture:  Acts (NIV) 7:3 [Stephen’s response before the high priest] ‘Leave your country and your people,’ God said, ‘and go to the land I will show you.’ …
5 He gave him no inheritance here, not even a foot of ground. But God promised him that he and his descendants after him would possess the land, even though at that time Abraham had no child.

Observation:  To us, God’s promises are not being fulfilled; they may take a long time in coming.  But God’s promises are GOD’s PROMISES!  He who never forgets will not forget His word!  The promises He made in Abraham’s day, He fulfilled in Moses’ day!

As God’s promises to Abraham were fulfilled, so God’s promises to me will be fulfilled!

Application:   I should never give up on God’s promises.  Those promises not fulfilled in my earthly lifetime will surely be fulfilled to the generations to come.  Looking over the ramparts of heaven, I will be able to see God carrying on His plan.  His promises to me will not end with my death.

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, you are the eternally faithful God.  You are sovereign and all things will work out for you glory.  What a privilege that I can be a small part of your plan. May I be faithful as you are faithful. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!