February 08, 2020: SOAP #3719:  Leviticus 7-9; Acts 15

Scripture:  Acts (NIV) 15:36  Sometime later Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us go back and visit the brothers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.” ,,, 40 …Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. 41 He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

Observation:  On their first missionary journey, Paul and Barnabas planted churches.  Now on this second missionary journey, they strengthened the churches.  They encouraged the leaders and believers and helped them grow in faith.  They reminded them of what they had taught them on the last visit.  They reported what God was doing in other places.

Application:   My attention has again been drawn to the above passage.  It speaks to me about the present ministry God has given Sharon and myself.  We travel throughout the state of Kansas, visiting the churches and encouraging the ministry of senior adults.  We enjoy the classes where a teacher presents the lesson and leads the discussion.  The knowledge, understanding, and wisdom that comes from people who for years have experienced God’s word stirs my heart.  If you have Sunday School classes or similar Bible fellowship study groups in your church—let me encourage you to make any extra effort needed to participate.  God will bless you and use you to bless others.

[Note:  when I visit in another home, I should make it my goal to strengthen, encourage, help them grow in their faith, remind them of what God has been doing, and testify about what God is doing in me.]

Prayer:  Holy Spirit, thank you for the blessings Sharon and I enjoy in the churches we visit.  Make us a blessing we pray.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!