Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
March 30, 2022: SOAP #4500:  Judges 8; Psalm 42; 1Corinthians 15

SCRIPTURE:  1Corinthians (NIV) 15:58 Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

OBSERVATION: What a fitting close to a chapter that begins with Christ’s resurrection and ends with our resurrection. Because of what Jesus has done for us (past). and because of what Jesus is going to do in us (future), verse 58 above tells me how I should live NOW (present).

APPLICATION: What is the key for living NOW (in the present).  Paul stated it so well in his letter to the churches in Galatia.  “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live but Christ lives in me.  The life I NOW live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

God has taken care of the past; God is preparing for the future; and right now, God is taking care of my present.  Jesus, by His Spirit, IS LIVING IN ME!   My “labor in the Lord” is really Christ living in me and working through me!  It is me submitting to Him and following His lead. 

PRAYER:  Jesus, you are more than an honored guest visiting in my life.  You are the permanent resident King.  I treat you as my Lord and you treat me as your family.  As I open myself to you, you open your heart to me.  May your presence be the dominating characteristic that is easily recognized by all who know and meet me. Amen

Pastor Leon
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