January 27, 2012

Acts 13:44-52 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Matthew 9:9-17, Psalm 20, Genesis 44-45

Journal Entry

Scripture

Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: “We had to speak the word of God to you first"...For this is what the Lord has commanded us.

And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

Observation

As Paul and Barnabas begin their journey to "make disciples of all nations," they are obedient in first sharing with their local community including the Jews. They share the gospel but it is up to each individual as to whether to accept the word of God and choose eternal life. When the persecution grew, they shook off the dust from their feet and went to Iconium. To continue the journey that God was leading them on. They were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit despite this persecution...I wonder what I would have felt...vindication that the message was being so widely received, resentment of the persecution stirred up by those opposing the message. Paul and Barnabas were filled with joy...sounds about right.

Application

I am reminded that my life as a believer is to be filled with joy and the Holy Spirit. I can only share what I have in my heart and I am encouraged to know Jesus more intimately and more completely. Decisions of those I interact with are their own...in God's providence. Let me know what I need to be in obedience.

Prayer

Lord, thank you for your love and what Jesus did for me on the cross. Let me know true obedience in you and to trust you completely that my life and the Gospel are sufficient only in your perfecct love and grace. Amen.

--mkk