Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
February 07, 2022: SOAP #4449:  Leviticus 4-6; Acts 14

SCRIPTURE:  Acts (NIV) 14:21 They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, 22 strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.

OBSERVATION:  Starting the life as a believer in Jesus Christ is so important.  We must be born again.  It is just as important that we “remain true to the faith.”  We cannot let “hardships” keep us from finishing what we started! 

Paul had the same concern for these believers as Jesus had for his disciples.  In His time with them before being crucified, He encouraged them to “remain” in Him and “remain” in His love.  (John 15:4-10) 

APPLICATION:  As my wife, Sharon, and I visit churches in Kansas, our goal is to strengthen and encourage the Senior Adult believers.  We want to encourage them to remain on fire for Jesus—to keep the fire of the Holy Spirit burning in their church, in their homes, and in their daily lives.  The ministry of the Holy Spirit is much too valuable to allow to dry up as we get older.  It is too valuable to limit to just Sunday mornings.  It is for every day, and for every age.  The gifts of the Holy Spirit are needed in the home, in the work place, in the retirement center.  They are needed at graduation time, at middle age, and in retirement!

We must not allow hardships, illness, disappointments, lack of appreciation, being passed over in favor of someone younger—we must not allow anything to put out our passion for Jesus!  Let us be good examples of keeping the fire burning in our heart. 

PRAYER:  Lord, you were worthy of my passion when I was young.  You have not changed.  You are still worthy of my passion in my older years.  May those who know me, know that You are my everything! Amen

Pastor Leon
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