This Day With God – A Spiritual Journey | Share The Word

History Repeats Itself

Posted on February 16, 2016 by Mark Shields

Stephen was appointed by the first church as one of the seven leaders. He demonstrated great wisdom as he spoke and the Spirit was with him. In Acts 7, he answers question in front of the Sanhedrin about charges of speaking against Moses and God. Stephen goes into a history lesson of how God has guided the people of Israel; that God had given them the land they lived in but the people continued to reject God. He went into the history of Moses leading the people of Israel out of Egypt; performing wonders and signs in Egypt, at the Red Sea, and for forty years in the wilderness (v. 36).

Even when God blessed the people of Israel, they chose to worship idols instead so God turned away from them at certain times in history and allowed foreign nations like Babylon to take over their land. But God never let Israel be totally destroyed and Stephen went on to explain about God’s favor toward their ancestors; eventually driving out their enemies.

Stephen went on to explain that during the time of David, plans were made to build a house of God and it was eventually built by Solomon. He brought up again how their ancestors continued to reject God even though He gave them everything, including the Righteous One who they killed (v. 52).

The members of the Sanhedrin were furious so they all rushed at Stephen, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him (v. 58). So we see how history repeats itself in this passage. The people of Israel have favor in God’s eyes but they continue to reject Him. Like Jesus who prayed for His killers when He died for our sins on the Cross, Stephen also prays for his enemies as they stone him to death.

This day with You God, we have received another great lesson from Your Word. There are times when we resist Your purpose for us. Just like today’s passage when the people of Israel rejected You, we take the wrong way by worshiping idols. Our idols today may be material gain like new houses and cars or in spending our whole life in the pursuit of fame rather than giving You the glory.

We forget there is only one victory that is important in this life; the victory assured through Jesus Christ. He blesses us with more victories than all the grains of sand on earth. Help us Lord to chase after the fruits of the Spirit. For hope gives optimism in a time of despair, Faith gives courage in time of doubt, and love brings victory in a time of hate. Help us to bring you glory today by continuing to share about Jesus all the way to the finish line. Amen!

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Posted in Bible Study | Tagged Bible Study, Christ, Courage, Cross, Faith, God, Holy Spirit, Hope, Lessons, Life, Love, Optimism, Prayer, victory | Leave a comment

Questions for Reflection for Study of Acts 7-9

Posted on February 15, 2016 by Mark Shields

The journey through Acts 4-6 over the last few weeks has taught some great lessons. When Peter proclaimed Christ as the Savior before the group that had crucified Him, it taught a great lesson on courage. When sharing about Christ, we might face opposition but we can take courage and boldly take a stand because the Spirit is with us to fight the battles we face.

We are never alone so there is no need to be afraid or dismayed. The Spirit enables us just like with Peter and John who applied their faith in difficult circumstances by praying for boldness and standing up to the rulers, the elders, and the teachers of the law.

Studying over the last few weeks, another lesson learned was about teamwork. The believers pooled their resources and became of one heart and mind; working together in spreading the Good News of the Lord Jesus. We can do the same today but at an even greater rate because of the Internet. Thoughts and ideas can be shared with believers across the globe. There are inspiring videos, quotes, thoughts, and ideas that are easily shared daily.

Studying about Ananias and Sapphira, learned was the importance of integrity. They sold some property but held back a portion of the money. They lied and then died. Let us never hold back from God and make sure we are lined up with His life plan. It’s a plan that has proven to work when applied as designed.

Another lesson received was in gaining a sense of purpose. The Apostles had a sense of purpose which gave them resolve and boldness. The Holy Spirit gave them power and they obeyed the guidance of the Holy Spirit to boldly begin the movement we know today as the church.

Even though the early church experienced some growing pains, they gathered everyone together for the first church council and they discussed the situation. They showed true leadership by admitting their weaknesses but recognizing their strength of prayer and the Word of God. They agreed to appoint seven (The first Deacons) to take on the challenges.

The results were very positive and this same strategy can be applied today by our leaders as they pray constantly for God’s help in receiving the vision. There is no fear because God is always near to hold us up on His shoulders so we can see far in the distance.

As the journey now continues through Acts 7- 9 over the next few weeks, remember that God sees you as His child. You are unique with abilities that can give Him glory. Make a decision today follow the Holy Spirit and play your part in this world.

The aim is to plant more seeds of faith, hope, and love; anticipating the yielding of 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 7
How does Stephen identify with the council? Stephen gives a history lesson. How does history repeat itself in this passage? Are there situations that come up where you resist God’s purpose for you?

Acts 8:1-25
What causes the church to spread out to other regions? What do those who are scattered do? Why do you want the power of God in your life?

Acts 8:26-40
What instructions does Philip receive from the angel? How has God prepared the eunuch to hear the message of Christ? What does God do for the eunuch and for Philip? How does this encourage you to talk with someone today about Jesus?

Acts 9:1-31
What were the characteristics of Saul before and after Jesus confronted him? Why is Ananias hesitant about God’s command? Ask yourself, have I been fearful in obeying the Lord in the last few days?

Acts 9:32-43
Who heals the paralyzed man? What evidences that Peter raises Tabitha to life by the power of God? What is the result? Has anyone ever believed in the Lord after seeing the power of God in your life?

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.

When we accept Christ as Savior, the Holy Spirit is our companion and it’s exciting to think about what the future holds. 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
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Posted in Bible Study, Questions for Reflection | Tagged Bible Study, Christ, Church, Courage, Devotion, Faith, God’s Plan, Holy Spirit, Hope, Joy, Leadership, Lessons, Love, Prayer, Purpose, Reflection, Savior, Scripture, Teamwork | 2 Comments

My Part of the World

Posted on February 14, 2016 by Mark Shields

The lesson for me as I read the news in my part of the world is that when we go through difficulty, the way to get back on track is to discover your strength. My friend, God is our strength. Have a wonderful week!

Step Ahead

In local news this week in Waco Texas, workers have started the process of the refurbish of Cottonland Castle. Also, leaders are pushing for a semi-pro baseball team to come to Waco. Another news article that caught my attention is that one of the commercial spots for the Super bowl was for Mars Chocolates and here is an article about the Mars factory that is located in Waco.

The city of Waco Texas went through some public relations or image difficulties because of the Branch Davidian siege in 1993. The city has fought hard to create a better image and the leaders are doing this by discovering their strengths. One of which includes being between two major cities in Texas; one Hundred miles from Dallas to the North and 100 miles from Austin to the South.

The central location of the city within the state of Texas is…

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Posted in Overcome Difficulty | Tagged Austin, Baseball, Business, Chocolates, Community, Dallas, Industry, Lessons, News, Sports, Tourism | Leave a comment

Servant Attitude

Posted on February 14, 2016 by Mark Shields

Once we accept Christ as Savior, there is within us the power to make a big difference for the world as we do our part and work together to do infinitely more than we could ever dream.

Step Ahead

Do people see God’s love in me?
Loving one another is the key.
Being of one heart and mind;
Doing much for mankind;

Following Jesus wherever He leads;
A Spirit of unity to serve many needs.
Taking care of all the little things
So from a small bit much springs.

How should we pass the big test?
By always trying to do our very best
And continuing to serve the right Master
Just like the woman with a jar of alabaster.

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Posted in Devotionals, Poems | Tagged Church, Community, God, Holy Spirit, Leadership, Love, Service, Unity | Leave a comment

Sermon Thoughts

Posted on February 12, 2016 by Mark Shields

The message last week at the church I worship was titled “Sweet Dreams – What Keeps You Up At Night? Am I Becoming More Like Jesus”? Here is a link to the podcast which is live at 9:30 central time each Sunday morning or viewable at any time or place thereafter at this link: http://fumcwaco.sermon.net/main/main/20304944.

Once we accept Christ as Savior, there is even more because within us is the power to make a big difference for the world as we do our part and work together to do infinitely more than we could ever dream.

This weekend, share a thought from one of the great sermons in your community or from a podcast. The Super Bowl is over and we noticed only one team won but with Gods strength and our calling, all are victorious in Jesus name.

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