SCRIPTURE: Matthew (NIV) 10:16 I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore, be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. 17 “Be on your guard against men; they will hand you over to the local councils and flog you in their synagogues. 18 On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. 19 But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time, you will be given what to say, 20 for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
OBSERVATION: Jesus was speaking to His disciples about rough days ahead. He did not tell them that they would escape without any personal troubles. He did not promise that it would be easy for them.
But He did promise two things. He promised that the Holy Spirit would give them how to answer their accusers which implies the Presence of the Holy Spirit with them! Yet more than with them; speaking “through” them!
APPLICATION: The joy and peace that God gives does not come from our circumstances, but from His Presence! Whatever the source of my troubles, oppressive government, economical setbacks, family, health, etc., I have God, the Holy Spirit, dwelling in me!
God has not promised me eternal physical life, but He has promised eternal spiritual life. In fact, I have it now! In this life, the Holy Spirit often gives me what to say at key times. He helps me know the right thing to do. He helps me write these SOAPs.
PRAYER: Holy Spirit, I want to be open to your input into my thoughts. As I read the Bible, keep speaking to me till I recognize your voice and understand what you are saying to me. Put your thoughts among my thoughts. Teach me to apply what I hear from you. Amen
Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!
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SOAPs by Pastor Leon 