Good Morning,
First I see that Saul, or Paul, and Barnabas were already involved in the work where they were. Acts 13:1 “Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers;” Before (and after Acts 15:35) they were called of God to be missionaries, they were busy serving and ministering in their local assembly. Let us also, as members of Valley, make sure that we follow that example and get involved in the work right where we are. Let’s seek to serve in whatever way we can; who knows where and how God may choose to use us down the road.
I doubt any of us are facing a stoning today, but I know we all are facing difficulties and struggles. Paul’s source of power and protection is the same today as it was back then. Whatever you are going through, take comfort in the fact that the God of all power is on your side.
Application:
Thank you for being a part of the 40 day challenge. Thanks for reading, and have a blessed day!
Jason Reeder
Salvation: May of 1992
Favorite book: Jude
Favorite Bible characters: David’s Mighty men (II Samuel 23)
Wife: Stephanie
Kids: Emily, Kaylee, Joshua, Lauren
Occupation: Registered Nurse/ECMO specialist, Comer Children’s Hospital, Chicago
Hobbies: Reading, fishing, golf, painting
My name is Jason Reeder and I was asked to give you a devotional thought from Acts 13-15.
Key Verse:
Acts 15:26 “Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Reflections:
I'd like to start by sharing some thoughts that came to me as I read this passage and then we'll come back to the key verse in a bit.
First I see that Saul, or Paul, and Barnabas were already involved in the work where they were. Acts 13:1 “Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers;” Before (and after Acts 15:35) they were called of God to be missionaries, they were busy serving and ministering in their local assembly. Let us also, as members of Valley, make sure that we follow that example and get involved in the work right where we are. Let’s seek to serve in whatever way we can; who knows where and how God may choose to use us down the road.
Second, I see that in not just these three chapters, but throughout the book of Acts, Paul was always looking for opportunities to share the gospel. (Acts 13:5, 14-41; 14:1, 6-7, 21-22, 25) But you say, “Duh, Jason – He was a missionary.” I agree and so are we. Matthew 28:19-20 says “Go ye.” It’s not a suggestion. As Christians we are commanded to spread His Word to the whole world. Also in I Peter 3:15, we are told to always be ready to share our Hope with others.
Finally, I see amazing displays of God’s power and protection in the life of Paul.
Ch 13:8-11 Elymas the sorcerer was blinded
Ch 14:3 Signs and wonders done by Paul and Barnabas
Ch 14:8-10 Lame man at Lystra healed
Ch 14:19 Paul stoned and left for dead.
I doubt any of us are facing a stoning today, but I know we all are facing difficulties and struggles. Paul’s source of power and protection is the same today as it was back then. Whatever you are going through, take comfort in the fact that the God of all power is on your side.
Application:
What stands out to me as I read this passage is Paul’s total abandonment of himself to the work of God in his life. Paul was definitely “all in,” as Chip Ingram would say. Paul gave himself so wholly to God, and we see through the Scripture just how God used Paul to change the world around him for Christ. I am challenged as I read this to think about what my world would look like if I could sell myself out for God the way Paul did. How would the relationships in my life be? How would my responses be during times of trouble or hardship in my life or that of my family and friends? What impact could I make in my workplace if I gave myself to God as wholly as the apostle Paul? The apostle Paul hazarded himself to Jesus Christ and the Gospel; and we see throughout the New Testament how God used Paul to impact his world for Christ. Now, what about us?
Thank you for being a part of the 40 day challenge. Thanks for reading, and have a blessed day!
In Christ,
Jason Reeder
Jason Reeder
Salvation: May of 1992
Favorite book: Jude
Favorite Bible characters: David’s Mighty men (II Samuel 23)
Wife: Stephanie
Kids: Emily, Kaylee, Joshua, Lauren
Occupation: Registered Nurse/ECMO specialist, Comer Children’s Hospital, Chicago
Hobbies: Reading, fishing, golf, painting