Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
October 25, 2023: SOAP #5074: Job 16; Acts 21-23

SCRIPTURE:  Acts (NIV) 23:11 The following night [while Paul was in prison] the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.”

OBSERVATION:  On his trip to Jerusalem, Paul had been warned many times that he would meet with trouble.  The prophetic words proved true.  Trouble had indeed found Paul.  Now in jail, the Lord appears to Paul.  Just the Lord’s Presence must have communicated to Paul several things:  first, “I know where you are!” And second, “I know how to get to you!”   The Lord’s words said first, “I know you have been faithful.”  And second, “I have more for you to do.”

APPLICATION:  Trouble is not an indication that I have missed God!  It is amazing to me that God was using Rome to protect the life of Paul.  He would later use Rome to provide the transportation to the city of Rome where God wanted Paul to give testimony.

That which limited Paul, only served to further his ministry.  And while he was in Rome’s prison he wrote his letters that took him around the world to generations of people living long after his death!

You may think you are limited, but God can use those limitations to spread your ministry further than you could ever have dreamed!  The “prison cell” you are in is not meant by God to limit your ministry, but to focus your ministry.  Instead of focusing on what you cannot do, focus on what you can do!  Leave the results to God! 

PRAYER:  Lord, help me not to be so concerned about what I cannot see but to focus more clearly on what I can see.  Amen.

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

#1.  I received a call today from Pastor Andrew using his new phone!!!  Our hearts rejoiced together for God’s provision.  Pastor Andrew did not have money for a phone; I did not have money for a phone; but God knew who did and God spoke to them to provide!!!   Now they will share in the heavenly rewards that will come.  
#2.  October 25 is the day Sharon and I were married 55 years ago!!!  Rejoice with us as we celebrate God’s sustaining power and provisions.  …as we celebrate the love we have for God and each other.