Something to Say

Something to Say

Acts 13: ¹³ Now when Paul and his party set sail from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia; and John, departing from them, returned to Jerusalem. ¹⁴ But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and sat down. ¹⁵ And after the reading of the Law and the Prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent to them, saying, “Men and brethren, if you have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.”

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“Stop right there” a leader said to me in the middle of my long list of complaints. “If you have a complaint, you must also have three solutions.” All of a sudden, I had nothing to say.

• Sometimes I want to complain.
• Sometimes I want to spout out negative words.
• Sometimes I want to say what’s on my mind and that thing may be bad for others.

Paul has now emerged as the leader of the group. When they arrived in the synagogue on the Sabbath day, the normal order of church service went on. A request came up. “Does anyone have any words of exhortation for the people?” Fortunately, Paul was available.

• GOD wants me to be ready to say something about HIS love.
• GOD wants me to be ready to speak about JESUS at any time.
• GOD wants me to be available to say a word of encouragement to people who need it.

Having something to say is one thing, but being available to say it is another. My heart will speak what is in it. I had to do an experiment. I paid attention to how many negative discussions I started or was part of and then I counted the number of positive conversations I had and the times I mentioned GOD. I found out I spoke negatively most of the time.

GOD wants me to have something to say. I am grateful for HIS love, grace and mercy. HE include me in HIS plans.

• What are you saying?
• Are your words mostly negative or do you have anything positive to say?
• Will you start practicing speaking about JESUS, not just saying ”GOD” to people?

For or Against

For or Against

Acts 13: ⁶ Now when they had gone through the island to Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew whose name was Bar-Jesus, ⁷ who was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man. This man called for Barnabas and Saul and sought to hear the word of God. ⁸ But Elymas the sorcerer (for so his name is translated) withstood them, seeking to turn the proconsul away from the faith. ⁹ Then Saul, who also is called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him ¹⁰ and said, “O full of all deceit and all fraud, you son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, will you not cease perverting the straight ways of the Lord? ¹¹ And now, indeed, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you shall be blind, not seeing the sun for a time.”

And immediately a dark mist fell on him, and he went around seeking someone to lead him by the hand. ¹² Then the proconsul believed, when he saw what had been done, being astonished at the teaching of the Lord.

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Wanting a certain person on my team, I reached out to meet. Instead of asking questions about my team, she inquired about another area of the company. Slightly hurt, I was tempted to suggest the benefits of my department. I had a decision to make. Tell the truth and say “Go pursue the other department” or slander the other department.

• There have been times when I really wanted my way.
• There have been times when I considered using slander as a tactic to get my way.
• There have been times when I wanted to overlook the truth in order to get my way.

Sergius Paulus sought to hear the truth about GOD and heard Barnabas and Saul were in town. Unfortunately, there were other people who wanted to remain in power and spread lies about them, trying to turn people from the faith they preached. Saul, who is also called Paul, was filled with the HOLY SPIRIT and saw through his evil attempt.

• GOD gave me the HOLY SPIRIT to guide me in truth.
• GOD gave me the HOLY SPIRIT so I can speak love, not slander.
• GOD gave me the HOLY SPIRIT to fight the temptation of getting my way, instead of seeking the truth.

Listening to the HOLY SPIRIT and doing what HE says is highly important. When I choose to get my way over doing what the HOLY SPIRIT says, I am actually fighting GOD. Even when I do not seek to hear the HOLY SPIRIT, I am choosing a path that may be against GOD.

Everything I do is either for GOD or against GOD. That’s as plain as I can put it. This may only seem extreme when I am against GOD, trying to get my way. GOD wants to mature me to see HIM in everything, not just the things I want to put HIM in. I am grateful HE grows me at a pace I can handle.

• Are you trying to get your way?
• Do you have something in your heart that is causing you to lie or slander?
• Will you ask GOD to remove the thing that keeps you from telling the full truth and fill you with the HOLY SPIRIT so HE can use you in a mighty way today?

Called to Action

Called to Action

Acts 13: ⁴ So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus. ⁵ And when they arrived in Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. They also had John as their assistant.

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“Unload the truck” was the statement from our supervisor. It was a hot summer day on the temporary job. “You want to play a game to pass the time?” a coworker asked me. “Sure” I replied. We goofed off for a long while.

The supervisor came back and saw practically nothing was done. “Get this done!” he exclaimed. Looking back, I did not know the company was being charged fees for taking too long to unload.

• There was a time when I did not take my calling seriously.
• There was a time when I looked at my calling as a distraction.
• There was a time when I went in other directions from my calling.

Barnabas and Saul were sent by the HOLY SPIRIT to do a great work for HIM. They sailed to the place they were sent. The moment they arrived, they preached the word of GOD. They wasted no time.

• GOD wants me to obey HIS calling immediately.
• GOD wants me to get rid of my complaints about HIS calling and respond with action.
• GOD wants me to see not doing HIS calling as something to fear.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. When GOD calls me to do something, HE wants immediacy. HE is patient though. HE knew I would walk away from HIS calling or half do it from time to time. HE grows me up to see the importance of HIS calling so I will take it seriously and not complain. I am grateful GOD rewards me when obey HIM.

• Are you half-serving GOD?
• Do you place the world’s situations over GOD’s calling?
• Will you answer GOD’s calling on your life with immediacy and priority today?

Ready to Go

Ready to Go

Acts 13: Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. ² As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” ³ Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.

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“LORD, what do YOU want me to do ?” was finally a sincere question I had asked. Up until then, I wanted raises and promotions and new cars. Within a week, the reorg was announced. Days later I was told I would be moving to another state.

• There were times when I had to get in the right mind to serve.
• There were times when I had to clear my thoughts in order to hear GOD.
• There were times when I had to be ready for anything in order to be used by GOD.

As the group gathered in Antioch were fasting and ministering to the LORD, the HOLY SPIRIT called Barnabas and Saul for a special work. The group obeyed so they fasted, prayed, laid hands on them and sent them. Fasting may have taken days but they were ready right away.

• GOD wants me to be ready to go where HE wants me to go at a moment’s notice.
• GOD wants me to know that I am sent versus complacent.
• GOD wants me to prepare for HIS journey when HE calls me to a work.

“Preparation” is the action GOD wants when HE calls. Rather than a fight for complacency, HE wants readiness to touch other lives through the power of the HOLY SPIRIT. GOD is always ready to send harvesters, but knows  the laborers are few.

GOD wants me to sincerely ask “LORD, what do YOU want me to do ?” so HE can decide where and when HE wants me to go and plant HIS seeds. Other people are waiting on my gifts and talents. I am glad GOD includes me in HIS plans.

• Are you being sent?
• Does GOD want you to meet new people so you can fast and pray for them?
• Will you accept GOD’s calling and prepare for where HE is sending you to do HIS work?

Staying Too Long

Staying Too Long

Acts 12: ²⁵ And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem when they had fulfilled their ministry, and they also took with them John whose surname was Mark.

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Wanting to see the senior executives and the news people, I stayed around after the meeting was over. I did not know this was a huge mistake as this was a closed meeting that included specific announcements of the future of the company. I just wanted to see and hear things for myself. I was told to leave. This was an undesired result of staying too long.

• There were times when I wanted to see the inception of an idea go to a finished product.
• There were times when I did not understand what was going on so I was more curious than cautions.
• There were times when I overstepped my role and wanted to be in the room when my request went up for discussion.

Barnabas and Saul returned home when they had fulfilled their ministry. There was a finite time for them to be there, serving the people. Perhaps if they served longer, the people would not have grown up. They did not overstay their welcome.

• GOD wants me to have faith when I serve people.
• GOD wants me to plant a seed in people and trust someone else to come along and water it.
• GOD wants me to serve some people for a short time and others for a long time.

Listening to GOD is important because I could overstay my welcome at the place HE originally sent me. After a while I may start discussing comfortable topics rather than highly needed discussions. My fears of keeping the crowd appeased could be placed over speaking what GOD wants me to say.

GOD wants me to listen to HIM and stay in a place only as long as HE desires. HE then will move me to serve another person or group. Heaven is my comfort I look forward to. I am grateful HE protects me here on earth.

• Are you holding onto the same ministry?
• Is GOD trying to move your gifts and talents somewhere else, but you have become comfortable where you are?
• Will you stop seeking retirement comfort and seek GOD’s kingdom no matter how old you are?

Oppressors Fall

Oppressors Fall

Acts 12: ²⁰ Now Herod had been very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon; but they came to him with one accord, and having made Blastus the king’s personal aide their friend, they asked for peace, because their country was supplied with food by the king’s country.

²¹ So on a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat on his throne and gave an oration to them. ²² And the people kept shouting, “The voice of a god and not of a man!” ²³ Then immediately an angel of the Lord struck him, because he did not give glory to God. And he was eaten by worms and died.

²⁴ But the word of God grew and multiplied.

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It seemed impossible to get anything done with this person as the boss. Besides the paranoia, the sheer arrogance and belligerence towards others placed shame on anyone who said they worked for him. I did not know what to do. One of the senior leaders said. “Don’t worry about it.” About a month later, we had a new boss.

• Some oppressive people lasted a long time in my life.
• Some oppressive people lasted only a short time in my life.
• Some oppressive people lasted long enough to do some damage, but was handled in the right way, at the right time.

Herod’s killing spree of people who followed GOD was over. The kingdoms he was angry with united in peace and in one accord. An angel of the LORD struck down Herod for not giving  GOD glory. His oppressive reign was now over.

• GOD wants me to know HE is in control.
• GOD wants me to know HE raises people up and makes them fall.
• GOD wants me to know HE enjoys when I work with others to have peace.

Uniting because of peace pleases GOD. HE sees those who have oppression in their hearts and will not stand for it. Unfortunately, the oppressors will do some damage before getting removed. BUT GOD can use that damage to grow HIS kingdom.

GOD uses broken people for HIS plans. HE heals people to fight another day. GOD enjoys hearts that desire peace but won’t stand for injustice. I am grateful GOD protects me and guides me.

• Are you being oppressed?
• Does it seem like no matter how good you are, bad people seem to “win?”
• Will you keep your faith, knowing GOD sees everything and has “that” person under control?

Change Jobs

Change Jobs

Acts 12: ¹⁶ Now Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. ¹⁷ But motioning to them with his hand to keep silent, he declared to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, “Go, tell these things to James and to the brethren.” And he departed and went to another place.

¹⁸ Then, as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers about what had become of Peter. ¹⁹ But when Herod had searched for him and not found him, he examined the guards and commanded that they should be put to death.

And he went down from Judea to Caesarea, and stayed there.

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“I can’t do it” I said in the interview. A group of executives wanted me to fire 33% of the staff if I joined the organization. After the interview, back in my home state, someone said “You need to get tough.” The expectation of me was to go along with decisions that could cause many people to lose their jobs, keeping mine in the process.

• There were times when I thought being “tough” was good.
• There were times when I thought nothing of firing people.
• There were times when I was led by the leaders, no matter how poorly they led.

Peter knew the guards were still in close proximity so when they finally opened the door, he told them to be quiet. He had to leave town. Meanwhile the guards, who were probably very tough, panicked. They had good reason. When they could not find Peter, they were put to death by other “tough” guards at the decree of the leader.

• GOD wants me to be wise to the world’s sins but not involved in causing them.
• GOD wants me to understand that I am a sinner who needs JESUS as the answer.
• GOD wants me to know HE can take care of me without the thing I may be holding onto that is harming other people.

“LORD, what do you want me to do?” was the missing question that I never heard or asked during my rapid rise in my career. I just went with the flow. BUT GOD wanted me to be different. HE wanted me to change jobs.

Unlike the world, JESUS showed grace and extreme mercy on HIS creation. This is missing from the world today. Being “tough” and combative is heralded as a badge of honor. GOD wants me to be tough, but to defend those who are being abused, misled and misdirected. HE wants me to stand for HIS entire kingdom, leaving the vengeance and protection to HIM. In JESUS I put my trust.

• Are you pursuing something that may be harmful to you and others?
• Do you think your pursuit will help or hurt GOD’s kingdom?
• Will you consider asking GOD “What do YOU want me to do?” so HE can guide you to stay or leave for HIM today?

Relieved and Excited

Relieved and Excited

Acts 12: ¹¹ And when Peter had come to himself, he said, “Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod and from all the expectation of the Jewish people.”

¹² So, when he had considered this, he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying. ¹³ And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a girl named Rhoda came to answer. ¹⁴ When she recognized Peter’s voice, because of her gladness she did not open the gate, but ran in and announced that Peter stood before the gate. ¹⁵ But they said to her, “You are beside yourself!” Yet she kept insisting that it was so. So they said, “It is his angel.”

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“At least it’s not raining anymore” I said to the other long-faced campers. Moments later, the van rolled back to the campsite with the injured child all bandaged up. They had been gone for hours. I was relieved that the person was alright. I was more relieved to have our leader back. I mean we couldn’t do anything without him and we were bored!

• When the trial is over, I get relieved.
• When the trial is over, I get excited.
• When the trial is over, I want to tell everyone.

Rhoda answered the door, heard Peter’s voice and became so excited that she forgot to open the door. Everyone at the house was mourning the death or Mary’s son, James brother of John. It seemed like the little excitement of seeing the power of the HOLY SPIRIT was lost. But Peter arrived under impossible odds. The excitement grew.

• GOD wants me to seek HIM in the middle of mourning.
• GOD wants me to seek HIM in the middle of the trial.
• GOD wants me to seek HIM in the middle of the pain.

It is not easy to praise GOD when it seems like all is lost. I mean, just when I start living my life for GOD, it seems like more problems occur. GOD knows the persecution will increase when I give my life to HIM. BUT GOD does provide relief and excitement that keeps me going. Some things cannot be fixed, but I put my trust in GOD to use them for HIS good.

• Are you in mourning?
• Does it seem like all is lost?
• Will you understand that it is alright to be in mourning and GOD loves you even though it may be difficult to hear that right now?

Dear LORD, please heal those hurting right now. Bless them with peace that only comes from you. amen

Free at Last

Free at Last

Acts 12: ⁵ Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church. ⁶ And when Herod was about to bring him out, that night Peter was sleeping, bound with two chains between two soldiers; and the guards before the door were keeping the prison. ⁷ Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, “Arise quickly!” And his chains fell off his hands. ⁸ Then the angel said to him, “Gird yourself and tie on your sandals”; and so he did. And he said to him, “Put on your garment and follow me.” ⁹ So he went out and followed him, and did not know that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. ¹⁰ When they were past the first and the second guard posts, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city, which opened to them of its own accord; and they went out and went down one street, and immediately the angel departed from him.

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Waking up with no meetings felt strange. No email to check and no phone calls to make was new to me. The elimination of the position I held was now real. All of the things I said I had no time for was brought to mind. I’m not talking about a “to do” list, rather GOD was asking me “Do you have time for ME now?”

• There were times when I just wanted to be free.
• There were times when I didn’t want responsibilities.
• There were times when I dreamed of being on my own schedule.

Peter was heavily guarded and bound with chains between guards. Those who did not believe in the resurrection of JESUS, may have thought this measure of security would prevent any deception from happening. BUT GOD never deceives. HE sent an angel to free Peter.

• GOD wants me to be free indeed.
• GOD wants me to be loosed from strongholds.
• GOD wants me to be lifted out of addictions.

Life has many holes for me to fall into. Desires for more stuff or lust over people, power or positions can cause me to get stuck on things that bind me, never seeing GOD in my daily walk.

GOD wants me to be freed up so I can speak about HIM another day. The pursuit of wealth and pleasure can bind the soul, but the pursuit of GOD’s kingdom frees the spirit. I am grateful JESUS has set me free. I am free indeed.

• Are you stuck in or on something?
• Do you feel locked up and want to be free?
• Will you give your life to JESUS so HE will become your purpose and you will be free, even in the place you want to run away from?

Expect Backlash

Expect Backlash

Acts 12: Now about that time Herod the king stretched out his hand to harass some from the church. ² Then he killed James the brother of John with the sword. ³ And because he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to seize Peter also. Now it was during the Days of Unleavened Bread. ⁴ So when he had arrested him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four squads of soldiers to keep him, intending to bring him before the people after Passover.

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It felt pretty good to see this person get reprimanded. I mean the lies this guy told were phenomenal. I had enough. I caught this person his lies and told our bosses. They did act on what I told them. Little did I know, one of them was his friend. Life started getting hard for me thereafter.

There were times when I received backlash for doing something I thought was right.

There were times when I received backlash and I did not expect it.

There were times when I received backlash and I did not know how to handle it.

Saying “JESUS is GOD who died and was raised for the sins of mankind” seems harmless. But there was another force at work that wanted this message to be stopped. Herod, a political leader, decided to show his power by killing people who believe in those words. Political church leaders agreed, so Herod went after the biggest threats, namely the disciples.

• GOD wants me to expect trouble because I believe in JESUS.
• GOD wants me to know people will question HIS power because they do not know HIM.
• GOD wants me to understand that HE can and will protect me, but I am not to fear speaking about HIM.

Believing in JESUS is somewhat easy in certain areas. I mean, there are places in the world where I can hand out a bible and hear “thank you” as a response. But there are other places where just the mention of JESUS could get me killed.

GOD knows the battle I face is supernatural. The harder part of belief is knowing there is a demonic force that tries to stop me from saying “JESUS is LORD” to everyone I meet. The fear of ridicule over believing in demonic forces may keep me from preaching about the enemy, Satan, who at every turn tries to use misdirection to fool even those who are chosen. I am grateful GOD protects me and opens my eyes to the battle.

• Are you helping GOD’s kingdom or hurting it with your messages?
• Are you experiencing backlash for speaking the truth?
• Will you continue listening to GOD and speaking the truth about JESUS to as many as HE sends you to, expecting backlash for doing so?

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Acts 11: ²⁷ And in these days prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch. ²⁸ Then one of them, named Agabus, stood up and showed by the Spirit that there was going to be a great famine throughout all the world, which also happened in the days of Claudius Caesar. ²⁹ Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea. ³⁰ This they also did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

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“Please list your KSA’s” was the direction given to me when applying for a job. “KSA’s?” I questioned. “Yes, your knowledge, skills and abilities” she replied. I was willing to do this because a job awaited on the other side of this activity, or at least I hoped.

• Many times I used my knowledge at work so I could get a paycheck.
• Many times I used my skills at work so I could get a raise.
• Many times I used my abilities at work so I could get a promotion and have a bigger paycheck.

Agabus, a prophet, was warned by the HOLY SPIRIT that there would be a terrible famine. Relief was needed in Judea. The disciples became that relief, each according to their abilities.

• GOD wants me to use my knowledge to bring relief to people.
• GOD wants me to use my skills to help people in need.
• GOD wants me to use my abilities to serve people.

Gifts and talents are not to be wasted. From simple skills to complex, GOD wants me to use what HE provided to me to assist others. It’s not always about money. GOD may want me to do something as simple as picking up the trash off of the parking lot of my apartment while praying for my neighbors.

GOD sent me into the world, not to become part of the world, but to bring HIS message of love. When times are difficult, HE wants me to use what HE gave me to help. I am grateful for the purpose HE has given me.

• Do you have knowledge, skills and abilities that you are only using for work?
• Do you have gifts and talents you have not used in a while because you work a lot?
• Will you use what you have learned or your natural talents to help someone in need for GOD today?

Encourage with Purpose

Encourage with Purpose

Acts 11: ²² Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. ²³ When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. ²⁴ For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord.

²⁵ Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. ²⁶ And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.

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“Become a speaker to high schoolers” someone suggested . “What should I say?” was my reply. “Just talk about what you do” was the suggestion. I did just that and I could hear “get off the stage” in their lack of attention. Another speaker suggested I encourage them next time. I did and that went much better.

• There were times when I just wanted to speak.
• There were times when I wanted to be part of the solution but went about it in a bragging way.
• There were times when I was not confident in what I could offer and it showed when I spoke.

Barnabas was sent to Antioch because the news of the people believing in JESUS had spread. When he arrived, he saw the grace of GOD. People must have had so much joy, that it showed on their faces in spite of their circumstances. Barnabas encouraged them with “purpose of heart.”

• GOD wants me to live my life for HIS purpose.
• GOD wants me to bear HIS fruit while HE sustains me.
• GOD wants me to encourage others to believe in HIM, give their lives to HIM and live their lives with purpose for HIM.

Encouraging people is great. Encouraging people to live their lives with purpose for GOD is exactly what HE is looking for. HE wants people to be encouraged enough to want to bear fruit. This is not easy, especially when the circumstances seem to grow larger each day.

GOD cared enough to warn humans about the days we are in. HE sent the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside me so I would hold on, otherwise I would give up. HIS message of love filled my heart. I am grateful HE wants me to encourage others for HIM.

• Have you been believing in JESUS as the answer to everything?
• Have you put your trust in GOD continuously?
• Will you continue to grow in HIS faith, knowing HE sees you and hears you and is pleased with you and what you just did for “that” person?

After the Violence

After the Violence

Acts 11: ¹⁹ Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. ²⁰ But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus. ²¹ And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord.

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When a fight broke out after the game, it seemed like mild chaos enflamed. We looked around for busses that had people who wore our school colors. We ran towards those busses, feeling safe when they left the stadium. We could continue our victory chants as the bus pulled away.

• There were times when I felt safer around my own.
• There were times when I got scared and looked for my kind of people in order to be safe.
• There were times when I simply wanted to enjoy life but something happened to spoil the fun.

Stephen spoke about the love of JESUS directly to HIS murderers. They murdered him too, causing people to spread everywhere. Some were so scared, they only preached the love of CHRIST to each other. But there were a few who spoke to a group of people who were different than them. A great number believed and turned to the LORD.

• GOD wants me to share HIS SON to everyone HE sends me to.
• GOD wants me to give HIS love to everyone who will listen.
• GOD wants me to teach about the love of JESUS to any human who seeks HIM.

GOD’s rewards are given to those who preach about HIS SON. But that is not enough for HIM. HE wants the easy conversations to happen and the hard. HE sends me to my household, my neighbors, my town, city, state, country and other countries to spread the great news of JESUS.

This is not easy, especially in a world of hatred. GOD still wants HIS SON spoken about to everyone who will listen. HE puts people in front of me who do not look or act like me and wants me to pray for them and tell them about JESUS. I am grateful GOD sends me.

• Are you fatigued after the violence?
• Do you think more rage is the answer?
• Will you listen to GOD and speak to anyone HE sends you to so they will believe in JESUS?

Then I Remembered

Then I Remembered

Acts 11: ¹³ And he told us how he had seen an angel standing in his house, who said to him, ‘Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon whose surname is Peter, ¹⁴ who will tell you words by which you and all your household will be saved.’ ¹⁵ And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, as upon us at the beginning. ¹⁶ Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He said, ‘John indeed baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ ¹⁷ If therefore God gave them the same gift as He gave us when we believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could withstand God?”

¹⁸ When they heard these things they became silent; and they glorified God, saying, “Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life.”

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Trying to cross the pool seemed like a daunting task but it was required for the grade. As I jumped in, things seemed to be okay, but halfway through, I started losing momentum. Then I remembered what the instructor said about relaxing, turning my head face upwards and breathing through my mouth each stroke. I made it to the other side.

• There were some things I had to learn in order to apply it.
• There were some things that were taught to me that did not come in handy until I applied it.
• There were some lessons I discounted until I really needed them.

Peter continued explaining why he was speaking to another race about JESUS. He wrapped up the amazing recount of events with something that happened in common with those who questioned him. He said “Then I remembered the word of the LORD.”

• GOD teaches me so I can have the right words at the right time.
• GOD teaches me so I can have the right behavior at the tight time.
• GOD teaches me so I can believe, apply and teach what HE wants me to teach.

The HOLY SPIRIT brings things to my remembrance. When I read about GOD, the HOLY SPIRIT places the words in my heart. Someone else comes along to water the seed planted in my heart. The seed grows into a tiny bit of faith, or mercy or love, depending on the seed.

Eventually I am faced with a situation where I need to give someone a word of encouragement. Then I remember what GOD has planted in my heart from the lesson HE taught me. I am grateful for the HOLY SPIRIT, who leads and guides me.

• Are you trying to live life without learning who GOD really is?
• Are you busy learning everything else but not spending time learning about the ONE who cares about you?
• Will you take some time to learn about JESUS and what HE has done for you today?

At that Moment

At that Moment

Acts 11: ¹⁰ Now this was done three times, and all were drawn up again into heaven. ¹¹ At that very moment, three men stood before the house where I was, having been sent to me from Caesarea. ¹² Then the Spirit told me to go with them, doubting nothing. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered the man’s house. 

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“LORD please help me” was my cry. I was doubled over in serious pain. The words I uttered were not used often, as I had stopped communicating with GOD. At that moment, the pain went away.

• There are times when I need GOD right now and HE agrees.
• There are times when I pray to GOD and HIS answer is immediate.
• There are times when I am shown something by GOD and it happens right away.

Peter was told to eat strange animals as an illustration of how he was to go and speak to other races about JESUS. The illustration or vision happened three times. At that moment, three men knocked on the door where Peter was. The HOLY SPIRIT was orchestrating the whole situation.

• When GOD has a plan for me, HE wants me to act with immediacy.
• When GOD has something for me to do , HE wants me to do it without doubt.
• When GOD has a specific change I need to make, HE wants me to make it without question.

Every day, GOD speaks to HIS people. HE guides them and requests that service be top of mind. GOD leads me through the HOLY SPIRIT, praying for people HE brings to mind.

Every once in a while, GOD may put a special request in there. When HE does, I must act immediately, otherwise I would forget. I am grateful GOD includes me in HIS plans.

• Are you hung up on something right now?
• Is GOD trying to speak to you and you cannot hear HIM because of your rage?
• Will you quiet down and listen to what GOD is telling you to do today?

Moment of Clarity

Moment of Clarity

Acts 11: ⁴ But Peter explained it to them in order from the beginning, saying: ⁵ “I was in the city of Joppa praying; and in a trance I saw a vision, an object descending like a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came to me. ⁶ When I observed it intently and considered, I saw four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air. ⁷ And I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat.’ ⁸ But I said, ‘Not so, Lord! For nothing common or unclean has at any time entered my mouth.’ ⁹ But the voice answered me again from heaven, ‘What God has cleansed you must not call common.’

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“You got it! Said the math teacher to me. I understood what was being said and I was able to explain it back to the teacher, clearly. I understood the principle and could apply the concept.

• There have been times when I understood something at a certain moment.
• There have been times when I got it after putting the pieces together.
• There have been times when I could point to the moment of clarity after wrestling with something.

Peter explains a very strange vision. For years he had been taught one way but was told to do something that seemed opposite. He was told to eat some very strange animals and insects which would make him ritually unclean. BUT GOD explained the concept of clean to him.

• GOD wants me to seek HIM so HE can provide clarity.
• GOD wants me to listen to HIM so HE can teach me.
• GOD wants me to study HIS ways so HE can correct my broken thinking about HIM.

All of heaven rejoices when one human has a moment of clarity regarding the belief in JESUS as the Savior. GOD loves when I look for HIM and find HIM sitting right next to me, never having left to go anywhere. This moment of clarity grows my faith in HIM and builds my trust. I am grateful GOD provides clarity in my purpose for HIM.

• Are you confused right now?
• Do you spend most of your time talking about someone else, never talking about your relationship with GOD?
• Will you ask GOD for a moment of clarity for your purpose?

Them

Them

Acts 11: Now the apostles and brethren who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. ² And when Peter came up to Jerusalem, those of the circumcision contended with him, ³ saying, “You went in to uncircumcised men and ate with them!”

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“What do you do for fun?” people asked me as they visited the town I moved to. “I go out with my coworkers” I replied. “You go out with ‘them’?” they asked shockingly. The questions about what I did with “them” and wasn’t I scared being around “them” ensued.

• Many times I have been put in the “them” category.
• Many times I have been labeled as “them.”
• Many times I have looked at others as “them.”

The apostles did something very wrong to Peter, thinking they were right. Instead of praising GOD for more people believing in JESUS, they accused him for eating with Gentiles. As if to say, “How dare you eat with “them!”

• GOD wants me to give the great news about HIS SON to anyone who will receive it.
• GOD wants me to tell everyone about HIS greatness.
• GOD wants me to be with hurting people HE places around me or sends me to.

JESUS taught the disciples how to pray, but they took it too literal. “Give us this day our daily bread” is inclusive, not exclusive. GOD wants me to see that humans are the “us” HE was speaking about, not a certain group.

Only a small god can serve a few people. BUT JESUS can serve all who believe in HIM. GOD is made up of love and humans find a thousand ways to label and hate each other. I am grateful GOD shows me love and wants me to do the same to “us.”

• Are you questioning someone because they are showing love to another race?
• Do you think GOD is only for a single race?
• Will you grow your faith enough to allow GOD to stretch your heart to fit other people in it so you can be a blessing to many today?

Overlooked but not held back

Overlooked but not held back

Acts 10: ⁴⁴ While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. ⁴⁵ And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. ⁴⁶ For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God.

Then Peter answered, ⁴⁷ “Can anyone forbid water, that these should not be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” ⁴⁸ And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then they asked him to stay a few days.

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Angry, I made it home seething with rage. “How dare they!” I thought to myself over and over. The confrontation had escalated and all I could think about was the altercation. As I sat I heard a clap of thunder. It was pouring rain.

One thing I forgot was I prayed for rain because of the severe drought. It rained on my house and on the houses of those I was angry with. I was too angry to notice the rain.

• Sometimes I am too angry to see what GOD is doing.
• Sometimes I am too worried to hear what GOD is saying.
• Sometimes I am too self-absorbed to do what GOD wants me to do.

Peter spoke about JESUS being the Savior of all mankind. As he spoke about belief in JESUS, the HOLY SPIRIT was poured out on everyone who believed. It did not matter about the race or gender or age, anyone who believed received the gift of salvation.

• GOD wants me to see HIM in action.
• GOD wants me to understand HIS grace covers more than what I can imagine.
• GOD wants me to want HIS grace to fall on those I am angry with so HE can grow my heart.

Overlooked is often the action I assign to the HOLY SPIRIT. I mean HE lives inside me and has to put up with my sins. BUT GOD placed HIM there for a reason. The HOLY SPIRIT begs for my forgiveness regularly and comforts me when I feel hurt. GOD wants more than those I would invite. HIS SPIRIT is not held back from anyone who calls on the name of JESUS.

• Are you angry at someone?
• Do you feel so much rage that you cannot see what GOD is doing?
• Will you see GOD is slow to anger because HIS grace is sufficient for you and for them?