"But I will tarry in Ephesus until Pentecost. For a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries."
The study notes in my Bible explain that perhaps no new testament church had such fierce opposition as the one in Ephesus. In Acts 19:23-41 we see the story of an Ephesian idol maker who caused an uproar among the people because Paul preached that the idols were not gods and had no power, and therefore cutting right into his revenue stream. 2 Corinthians 1: 8-10 also describes trouble he faced in this region. In the face of all this, Paul's response was to delay his trip to Corinth because 'a great and effective door' had opened. Here's where the challenge is: when we encounter people who don't have much concern for God and may even be a little hostile toward Him, do we view that as an opportunity or as an uncomfortable moment we'd rather avoid?
God, let me be aware of such opportunities today. As I encounter co-workers and strangers who do not know you today, grant me a spirit of boldness to take the time to share the gospel, or even a word of encouragement, with them instead of taking my usual course of action - nothing. Produce in me a willingness to mention you, even when the situation seems uncomfortable. You said that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Let me be Your voice today, proclaiming your truth.
Hi Ryan, (am I supposed to greet you each time in a blog?) :) oh well....... but your study led me today back to the Old Testament to 11 Chronicles. Amaziah was a good King and he held the throne for such a long time. Many times we are "good" Christians for a "long" time. But is good, good enough? This question I pose to ALL of us. But with King Amaziah, something was missing (in my interpretation) although he had good intentions. He worked hard, But he never quite measured up to the standard that his throne required. Do WE measure up to the standard that Calvary requires? You know, Calvary should be our great motivator. Although he (the King) did what was right in the sight of the Lord, he never did it with a fully surrendered heart. (that's me many times; may not be you all) But could this be the dilemma we face; would we at times be our own worst enemy? In our service to the Lord, are we many times overwhelmed by the division of our loyalties and time constraints? We perform the required duties, but our whole heart and devotion is not in it? Could this be? And is this where are boldness fades? I find that when I "finally" recognize that life is worth living valiantly for the Lord in our DAILY walk, I will.......... please God! So whatca think?
ReplyDeleteWOW!!! to both Ryan and SEJones ( I know you may not know me) but both of these posts are extremely thought provoking. I really have no other words to say right about now. I've been left speechless......(thinking, pondering, sitting, staring at the screen) Ok, I think I have something now =)
ReplyDeleteRyan, the prayer you typed was wonderful. I too, need to ask the LORD daily who I'm to be led to talk to, minister to, encourage, etc. But I often find myself too occupied with my own issues/wants/needs/desires that I tune the Lord out and carry on with the day like business as usual...sure I may pray in the morning but that can't be enough. That isn't enough. Sure I may send a few encouraging texts to my friends. But that too, cannot be enough. I thank the Lord for allowing you to start this blogging when you did. I really appreciate Him using you like this.....
This is Kathy Dees by the way... =)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comments guys. The start of this blog is leading me to glorify God more and I pray that's what happens - He gets the glory. It's caused me to actually focus on what I'm reading and not just do it out of obligation.
ReplyDeleteElaine, I love your greetings so if you want to greet me each time you post, I'll take it! I suppose we've been learning lately that our actions are useless without love and a true heart. I think there's some 'King Amaziah' in all of us who want to be in right standing with God, but aren't willing to give everything to him.