Strength 11.16.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today we are continuing our studies on the book of Acts, please read Chapters 20-22 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this on into your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2020-22&version=9

Today we will read about Paul's mission to Macedonia and Greece; Eutychus waking from death; the message to the Ephesian elders; and Paul seized in the Temple. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that you are not alone when facing uncertainties. Jesus is your strength and will help you see the light through the darkness.

The Holy Spirit made it clear to the Apostle Paul that he was to go to Jerusalem, he headed in that direction even though the there was a possibility that he would be imprisoned and possibly die when he arrived. Along the way he passed through Macedonia, "And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia. And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece, And there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.".........And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God." (Acts 20:1-3,22-24).

Fearing for his life, Paul's companions and other Christians who had assembled in Philip's house urged their beloved Apostle not to proceed to Jerusalem. "And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him, Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship." (20:36-38).

With a determination which resembled that of His Master, the Apostle Paul told his friends that death itself held no fear for him. "Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus. And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done." (21:13-14). It would naturally be expected for Paul to be sad and preoccupied with his misfortunes, but Paul's personal life was disregarded because of his love to please his Master. Regardless of the persecution he faced he did not back down because he knew that Jesus was with him.

The indwelling Holy Spirit will also strengthen us to withstand our trials and temptations just as He did for Paul, we have not been left alone, but are strengthen through Jesus. With the assurance of the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, we can face life with certainty concerning our future. This enables us to enjoy a deep, inward peace that comes only from God alone. "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4:13).

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Pray for a sensitive heart that I might be a representative of Your indwelling Spirit to those who have distressing needs. Develop in me a discerning heart that I might seek out those in need. While I don’t have all the answers I do know that Your Word brings light, direction, and confidence as we must navigate through the frequent twists and turns in our journey here below. We offer ourselves to You to be a blessing to others and put our trust and faith in You to see us through all that is unknwn. In Jesus' name........Amen.

Have a wonderful day and week!
God Bless,
Christina

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