Are you discouraged by the conflicts and moray decay all around us? I am. The study of the book of Acts is giving me hope. I am glad that this book was chosen for the fall Precept Bible study.
Sometimes political issues stir my emotions. Can political action groups solve the problems? They may have a place, but the problems in our country are spiritual.
It is not wrong to stand up for a point of view—in fact we must pursue truth. Every life is valuable. God designed marriage as one man and one woman. This truth comes from the word of God.
As I spend time studying the Bible, I realize that God’s plan of salvation is woven through the scriptures and this message is most important. The gospel changes hearts. The apostles spoke about Jesus:
And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12
The apostles and early church were focused on the message of the gospel. Even when persecution began they prayed for boldness.
And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness. Act 4:29
Followers of Jesus, the church, have a specific role for this time. We are called to be a witness for Jesus Christ. Through our words, our attitudes and actions we have a responsibility to have a message that points to Jesus and salvation. Sometimes we fall short. We need to be in the Word, in prayer and dependent on the Holy Spirit. Jesus has given the Holy Spirit to be our helper.
I know that I am more sensitive to the Holy Spirit when I am studying my Bible, spending time in prayer and joining in fellowship in my home church. These are necessary activities. I encourage you to embrace these practices.
But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God, among those who are being saved, and among those who are perishing. 2 Corinthians 2: 14-15
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank-you for completing the plan of salvation. Thank-you for forgiving my sins and giving us your Word. Guide me by the Holy Spirit to be a witness for you.
Linking with Thought Provoking Thursday, WholeHearted Wednesday, A Little R & R, Titus 2sday, Hope in Every Season, Words with Winter, Sharing His Beauty, Sunday Stillness, Grace & Truth and Faith Filled Friday
Lovely post.
Thanks so much for linking up with Grace & Truth this week!
God bless,
Jenn
“I know that I am more sensitive to the Holy Spirit when I am studying my Bible, spending time in prayer and joining in fellowship in my home church.” These are such important things for us to remember. It’s so easy to get busy and not stop long enough to really study the Bible, meditate on it and commune with God in prayer. I am trying to make it more of a priority to slow down and just be still before God. Blessings to you! I’m visiting from #SundayStillness.
It is always a benefit for me to be in a women’ Bible study that meets regularly. I do much better when I study for our meeting together. So glad you visited, Gayl.
Yes, we must continue to point others to Him no matter the world’s motives. I’m learning about thoughts and how they dictate attitudes – this is obviously an area The Lord is wanting me to improve on so my actions speak “Christian” loudly! Blessings to you and thank you for sharing!
The good thing is, that as a child of God, we are always learning, always being refined. Thank-you for visiting, Carrie!
It is so hard not to become worried, discouraged and upset over the state of America and how quickly it is going down hill. So thankful that with Jesus, we have already won the war! That is a wonderful truth and ope to cling to.
Amen. With Jesus we have already won the war!
Hey Carol,
I came over on FaithFilledFriday to find your post today.
What a great word – to spend time in the Word, in prayer, and with other believers – esp. when you are feeling disheartened by the world. This is such wisdom!
And, maybe that’s why our friends get so discouraged when they get away from the church and the Word – they quit embracing these practices.
I’m blessed by your post today,
Melanie
So glad you visited today. Thank-you for your comment. Have a blessed weekend!