God’s Word Says….

Acts 14:19-20 (GNT)
19 Some Jews came from Antioch in Pisidia and from Iconium; they won the crowd over to their side, stoned Paul and dragged him out of the town, thinking that he was dead. 20But when the believers gathered round him, he got up and went back into the town. The next day he and Barnabas went to Derbe.

My Thoughts…..

Because of Paul’s ministry, and the miracles that ensued, the Jews stoned him and took him outside the city gates. However the disciples (the fellow believers in Christ) circled about him and he got up and went back into the city. I am envisioning that the disciples got around this man, prayed for him and showed concern and love for him. Further, I believe that they circled around him as he returned to the city, indicating that they were his protector. I also believe that it was, to a great extent, the prayers and their love that helped Paul get to his feet and continue the ministry to that city.

Challenge……

Friends, I believe that God places people like Paul in our path every day. There are folk that are hurt, discouraged, and looking for a disciple to circle around them, pray for them, encourage them and love on them. I believe there are folk that feel like giving up because they feel like their ministry is falling on deaf ears and having no impact for the Lord. There are friends within our realm of influence that are hurting – either financially, or in their health, or in the bad health of their loved one, or even because of death, perhaps. It is not our job to refer them to the pastor, or send them to the church office, or ask someone else to go and pray for them. We are often placed in such scenarios so that God might minister through us. Sounds impossible? Remember, with God all things are possible. God is looking for our availability and willingness to serve Him, not our abilities. Sure in the eyes of the world there may be others more qualified to help, but I can guarantee you today that there is none like our God, and with Him ministering through us, we can do all things! So be on the lookout for who might need you today, and seek God’s wisdom and power to help them. He is more than willing to encircle us and help us to do the right thing. Just let Him do it friend!

Prayer……

Lord Jesus, I believe that there are many that are hurting in our world. Literally in OUR world of influence. Please open my eyes that I might see the needs of people that I come into contact with. Please give me wisdom and humbleness to stop the busy-ness around me so that I might not only see the needs, but that I might encircle the person, encourage them, pray for them and show love to them, like You would have me do. Father, You have a large army of folk that claim You as Lord on Sunday. Please help us to be Your disciple every day of the week and truly show that we are Yours. For it is in Your precious and wonderful name that I pray. AMEN!

Action…..

In response to God leading You through this devotional today, please get with a Bible teaching Pastor you may know and allow him to guide you. Otherwise feel free to reply to my post online, or you may email me directly at NuggetsFromGodsWord@outlook.com. I will gladly add you to my prayer list, and/or respond to your request(s) ASAP.