Over the last few weeks, the journey through the Bible took me through the study of Acts 22-24 as Paul continued to spread Christianity even under great opposition. He took courage in knowing that God was with him to help in the time of need. Things fell into place and happened for his benefit. Just like when he was notified of the plot to kill him.
Even in turmoil and unrest, Paul could remain confident because God was on his side and we can take this same attitude. The world constantly tries to keep us in a state of turmoil and unrest. To step ahead, let us take in God’s Word to fortify. Let us remain optimistic because God is big enough to provide the poise we need to think through each situation.
Just like Paul who was innocent but in prison for two years, being persistent will help us overcome the obstacles we face in life. Like a stream of water, persistence will eventually cut into a rock and if we remain persistent at focusing on the possibilities God gives, we can cut into and go through any obstacle in our way.
Paul knew his express purpose was to carry the name of Christ before the Gentiles, their kings, and the people of Israel. There was pressure to stand up to and obstacles to overcome as he set out to achieve this purpose. The express purpose of this blog is to not only learn the main principles of the Word but to keep the Word in our thoughts in order to apply them in our life.
I will continue this express purpose with a study over the next few weeks of Acts 26-28. The aim is to plant the seeds of faith, hope, and love in order to yield fruit that nourishes others. I invite you to join me over the next few weeks as I step ahead using the questions below to inspire thoughts and ideas. God will give us the upper hand by producing in us the heart of a champion.
Acts 25:23 through 26:1-32
What is the source of Paul’s courage (See Acts 18:9-10 and Acts 23:11)? Can you think of times when problems you had were turned into opportunities? How important is it to maintain our focus like Paul the apostle did?
Acts 27:1-44
With whom does Paul Sail (follow the trip on a map)? What do the events in this passage reveal about God (See verses 23-24)? What do your reactions in times of stress and difficulty reveal about your faith in God’s control of every situation?
Acts 28:1-10
Paul was observant and helpful to the islanders. In what ways do you try to be observant and helpful in your immediate situation? How can you be more observant and take advantage of opportunities to be kind to others?
Acts 28:11-22
How does Paul’s arrival in Rome demonstrate God’s faithfulness (See Acts 23:11)? Do you really believe that God keeps His promises? What promises are especially relevant to your needs today?
Acts 28:23-31
What is Paul’s message to the Jews in Rome? Why don’t people understand God’s message? What should you do when people don’t understand God’s message?
The above reading plan will be used as I share over the next few posts. It’s important to have a plan. I’m thankful that Jesus is God’s plan for us and by accepting Him as Savior; we have taken the steps necessary to make this day with Him amazing! At this link: God’s Plan for Us, is a post about accepting God’s plan or reaffirming our “YES” for Christ.
With God, we can get through anything, we can patiently grind it out during difficulties or give Him credit when the impossible is made possible. Beyond that, we can celebrate because of the victory we will always have with Him.
Feel free to respond with a short note or a comment about any of the questions above. Also, I welcome any other thoughts or ideas, favorite inspirational videos, photos, or favorite Bible verses. Just add them to the comments or to a Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day with God.
Resources and Supplementary Helps Used in Posts
Adeney, Carol. This Morning with God. Downer Grove Illinois: InterVarsity Press, 1978
First United Methodist Waco Podcast
Christ Notes
Family Times
Image Source
This Day With God - A Spiritual Journey 