Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
March 13, 2023: SOAP #4848: Deuteronomy 22-24; Galatians 4

SCRIPTURE:  Galatians (NV) 4:13 As you know, it was because of an illness that I first preached the gospel to you. 14 Even though my illness was a trial to you, you did not treat me with contempt or scorn. Instead, you welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as if I were Christ Jesus himself.

OBSERVATION:  Paul had first stopped at Galatia due to illness.  Either the sickness caused him to stop where he had not planned or caused him to extend his stay instead of moving on as he had planned. The people of Galatia did not treat Paul as though he was untouchable due to his sickness but went out of their way to minister to him.  Paul refers to it as a trial that THEY endured. Paul was not afraid to identify his problem as “my illness.” It was not considered a “negative confession.”  The Galatians did not reject Paul or belittle his faith because of this sickness.

Paul, and the Galatians, and the Holy Spirit used this “illness” for the glory of God.  Paul did so by taking the opportunities afforded him to preach the gospel.  The Galatians did so by accepting the gospel! Then, later, the Holy Spirit expanded this ministry by inspiring Paul write this letter to the Galatians, now a part of our Bible!!!   It all started with Paul’s schedule being interrupted by his illness.  

APPLICATION: Limitations, unplanned interruptions, changes in schedules may provide unexpected opportunities to share the love of Jesus.  I must not waste my time complaining but must looking for divine opportunities.  Only God knows the full value of unexpected opportunities brought our way.  (A mother is staying home to tend to a sick child. Today God will answer your prayers for your child’s salvation. …and you get to be a part!) 

I must not let my frustrations with a broken schedule, or a delay, cause me to miss opportunities to share the love of Jesus with those nearby. 

PRAYER:   Holy Spirit, when things are not going my way, help me to keep a sweet spirit. May a bad attitude on my part not hinder someone from seeing you at work in me, and being open to your work in their life.   Amen.

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!   
On Facebook:  Today’s SOAP from Pastor Leon