My Daily Pause

During Paul’s last meeting with the Ephesians, he told them he had taught them everything they needed to know and he was therefore “Innocent of the blood of all.” (Acts 20:26)

Paul’s example was to teach the full counsel of God. He never let his students continue in sin without a warning. He taught everything:

Not just the popular parts.

Not just the easy parts.

Not just the fun parts.

Would it break your heart on the last day to have your best friend ask, “Why didn’t you tell me?”

So there Paul was in Ephesus – teaching and converting people to Christianity like a pro. The problem was the little statues of the Greek gods were becoming obsolete because people began worshiping the one true God. They created a stir so loud and large that some people didn’t even know why they were rioting. (Acts 19:21-41)

I just today saw in the local TV news that an outspoken evangelist is being accused of hate speech. While there are no actual witnesses to these things, the rumor is that he leads vicious rallies targeted at homosexuals. His contention is that homosexuality a sin – along with premarital sex and adultery. He says that he doesn’t hate gay people, but the New Testament clearly makes that lifestyle a sin. He has created a lot of enemies by teaching the truth and they are talking about protesting the church where he works.

Some things never change.

Paul tells us in 2 Timothy 2:2 to follow the example of the apostles and teach God’s word. Paul was a very persuasive teacher and really knew his stuff. His skill didn’t keep him from facing difficult situations though, did it? Paul was beaten, mocked, run out of town, arrested. (Acts 16, 17, 18) But he kept teaching  – and that is the example he wants us to follow.

The next time you need a little boost in your courage, think about Paul and Silas as they travel through tough terrain converting some tough people.

Consistent application of God’s word earns respect and tolerance from others. God’s image is seen first in a godly person. When Jehoshaphat demonstrated this, he even had the Philistines and Arabians paying tribute to his kingdom (2 Chronicles 17:10-13).

Some ways to apply this might be:

1. Be careful in your language.
2. Be willing to teach when you have an opportunity
3. Show the qualities of Jesus in your actions

Daily Bible Reading for Feb 13

Joseph interprets two prisoners’ dreams. Jehoshaphat begins his reign in Judah and teaches the Scriptures to all the land. The house of Cornelius is converted (The First Gentiles).

Psalm 44
Genesis 40
2 Chronicles 17
Acts 10:1-11:18

In Psalm 43, God is given a number of roles. He is the deliverer, the source of strength, light and truth, and joy and hope. I noticed especially that God isn’t labeled as the source for joy, he is joy itself – “My exceeding Joy”.

The ultimate intent of the Gospel might be to bring the faithful joy, no matter what challenges they are facing. (1 John 1:1-4)

Allow God to be your light of truth – He with strengthen you with a sense of hope and joy like no other.

Daily Bible Reading for Feb 12

Joseph goes to prison. King Asa dies. Peter heals Aeaneas and raises Dorcas from the dead.

Psalm 42-43
Genesis 39
2 Chronicles 16
Acts 9:32-43