January 25, 2012

Acts 13:13-25 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Matthew 8:23-34, Psalm 19:1-6, Genesis 41

Journal Entry

Scripture

"After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent a message to them, saying, 'Brothers, if you have any word of encouragement for the people, say it.' So Paul stood up, and motioning with his hand said: 'Men of Israel and you who fear God, listen.'" (Acts 13:15-16)

Observation

Here at the beginning of their first missionary journey, Paul & Barnabas visited the synagogue at Antioch in Pisidia where Paul boldly preached God's Word when he was asked. Paul was fully prepared to preach the Word when the opportunity came up. It's really encouraging to see the drastic difference between Saul (before the conversion) and Paul (after the conversion). Before chapter 9, Saul was a persecutor of believers; now in chapter 13, he has become a proclaimer of God's Word. Paul's message reveals that he knew the Old Testament history and understood who Jesus really was.

Application

I am greatly encouraged and challenged by the fact that Paul was not only prepared, but also bold to proclaim the truth when the opportunity was given. He was not only a man filled with the Holy Spirit, but a man filled with God's Word. God's Spirit works mightily through those who are immersed in God's truth. As I daily seek opportunities to be used by God, my life must be in God's Word as I am guided and controlled by the Holy Spirit.

Prayer

Lord, I seek to proclaim your truth in season and out of season as you bring different opportunities unto me. Lord, I pray that I would be filled with Your Spirit and become bold to proclaim the truth. My prayer is that I would always be a diligent student of Your Word so that what I proclaim is nothing other than Your pure Word. Lord, help my life to be an instrument of Your Word today to someone who is hungry for You. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

--Stephen Han