Day 311

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Scripture

November 6—Acts 16-18: Second Journey of Paul

Observation

The dispute between Barnabas and Paul over John Mark, Barnabas' cousin who deserted the team halfway through the first journey, could have ended the early missionary efforts of the church. Instead, it only serves to double the gospel's impact as Barnabas takes John Mark and Paul selects Silas as his new traveling companion. Paul revisits the churches established on the first trip and spearheads the gospel advance into Europe: Philippi . . . Thessalonica . . . Berea . . . Athens . . . Corinth. Each city represents a unique challenge and demands a dynamic strategy for penetrating a new region with the gospel of new life in Jesus Christ.

Application

It has been well said, "Some individuals are so heavenly minded, they're no earthy good!" And nowhere is that more evident than in many a Christian's attitude toward the duties of citizenship.

The apostle Paul was a Roman citizen from birth (22:27-28). He was justly proud of his citizenship and valued it highly. Paul was knowledgeable of his rights as a Roman and insisted that they be observed (16:36-40). He also knew his responsibilities as citizen and sought diligently to observe them (Romans 13:1-7).

Do you know your rights and responsibilities as a citizen of your homeland? Did you vote in the election? Do you pray regularly for those "in authority" (1 Timothy 2:1-2)? Do you keep informed on local, state, national and international issues? Do you make your biblical convictions known on important issues? Remember while it may be true that "This world is not my home, I'm just a-passin' through . . . ," this doesn't permit you to "pass the buck" as a Christian citizen!

Prayer

Father God, when we pray we want our motives to be pure and right. We pray for your cause, the saints, their woes and trials, their duties and crosses are always in our prayers. We pray with all your causes and perfect will in mind. Please guide us when we pray not to pray selfish prayers just for us and our people, but to always have your perfect will in mind—not our will but thy will be done. In Jesus' name! Amen! 

Pray God's Will be Done!




© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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