Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
October 23, 2023: SOAP #5072: Job 13-14; Acts 17-18

SCRIPTURE:  Acts (NIV) 17:15 The men who escorted Paul brought him to Athens and then left with instructions for Silas and Timothy to join him as soon as possible. 16 While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols. 17 So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and the God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the market-place day by day with those who happened to be there.

OBSERVATION:  Paul had arrived in Athens and had to await the arrival of Silas and Timothy.  Instead of taking a room and spending the time alone, he went out into the city and looked around.  He began talking with the Jews in the local synagogue as well as the people in the marketplace.   He used his “waiting-time” to interact with people.  He was invited to speak publicly at a place where people gathered to hear new ideas.   He made good use of his “waiting-time.”

APPLICATION:  Today I will have “waiting-times” before the time to begin my bus route, maybe in a doctor’s office, or in a grocery store check-out line; and, of course, stopped at a traffic lights.  Waiting times can be frustrating if I am in a hurry, BUT if I see it as an opportunity for the Lord, it can be turned into a blessing.

What do I do with my “waiting” time?  Do I look around?  Do I see who might be open to some conversation?  Do I take advantage of opportunities to present Jesus?  Speaking might not be possible, but praying always is!

PRAYER:  Lord, help me to have my spiritual eyes open to opportunities available in my “waiting-times.”  Amen.

Pastor Leon
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Praise the Lord, Pastor Andrew will be getting a phone today!   The Lord provided specifically for the phone.  He should be able to participate in a conference in Kenya this week via the internet.  Praise the Lord!!!