October 19, 2021: SOAP #4338:  Job 5; Psalm 108; Acts 10-11

SCRIPTURE:  Acts (NIV) 10:44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues {Or other languages } and praising God.

OBSERVATION: Peter, a Jew, had been obedient to the Holy Spirit.  He crossed a prejudiced barrier and entered the house of a gentile.  There is no indication that Peter knew what he was to do, or what was to happen.  But his obedience in going was all that was needed.  While he was speaking, the Gentiles experienced the Holy Spirit the same as the Jews had on the Day of Pentecost!

APPLICATION:  There is no way to over emphasize the importance of obedience!   When I obey and do what I can do, I open the door for the Holy Spirit to do what He can do!   My obedience to God opens the door for the Holy Spirit to move in my environment. 

God’s plan is always beyond my abilities and resources.  If God limited Himself to my ability and resources, then people would say, “That was only Leon.”  But when God does what only God can do, then people must acknowledge that God was at work.  God’s plan almost always includes a part for man, but that part is obviously not the solution to the problem. 

I believe many times God uses my obedience as a sign to the spirit world to demonstrate that He has a child/son who will do as He says.  It may seem foolish to man, but it blesses the Heart of God who then does what only He can do!  My obedience is in contrast with satan’s disobedience and it justifies God’s decision to remove satan from his place in heaven. 

PRAYER: Holy Spirit, I listen to you and I obey you.  My obedience is an expression of my submission to you and of faith that you will bring the needed solution.  Amen.

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!