October 27, 2021: SOAP #4346:  Job 18; Psalm 114; Acts 27-28

SCRIPTURE:  Acts (NIV) 28:7 There was an estate nearby that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and for three days entertained us hospitably. 8 His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. 9 When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. 10 They honored us in many ways and when we were ready to sail, they furnished us with the supplies we needed.

OBSERVATION: The islanders had welcomed these who had made it to shore from the shipwreck.  They had a fire going and offered hospitality and now they were getting rewarded.  God was using Paul to minister healing to those who were sick. 

Paul did not let his status as a prisoner keep him from ministering to those around him.  Instead of complaining about how inconvenienced he was in being a prisoner, Paul found ways of blessing others.  Complaining about being inconvenienced is a selfish expression of pride. 

APPLICATION:  I need to be careful about expressing my displeasure in being inconvenienced.  Having an opportunity to witness is so much more important than making sure people know that I am bothered about something.  It is hard for my mouth to be full of the goodness of Jesus when it has just been full of complaining.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, forgive me for complaining.  In comparison to the inconveniences suffered by your Son, Jesus, I have absolutely nothing to complain about.  Lord,may the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. (Psalm 19:14) Amen.

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!