Our amazing God

Acts 17:24-28parts “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth…he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else…For in him we live and move and have our being.” God is far beyond any human’s comprehension.  All of nature is a showcase of His creation.  As you read this, how many times have you taken a breath?  Your entire being is a gift from God.  Wouldn’t it make sense then that each of us in recognition and appreciation of blessing upon blessing would live lives of thankfulness for the multitude of gifts each of us have so generously been given?

Great word–what is it?

Acts 16:40p ..they (Paul and Silas) met with the brothers and sisters and encouraged them…” As a parent, as a spouse, as a friend —what is the most valuable thing you or I can give to others?  Real estate? New car? Money? Stylish clothes? Whatever thing you can think of.  Nothing will do more for another person than ENCOURAGEMENT.  Is that really true?  You tell me–ABSOLUTELY.  Our difficulty as humans is giving encouragement and (strangely enough) receiving encouragement.  That is what is really at the heart of Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving and God Himself.  There is so much wonderful truth within our Bibles!

QUESTION

Acts 16:30-31 “He then brought them out and asked, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’ They replied, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved —you and your household.'” God could not have made your and my salvation any simpler or easier.  He did everything for us.  There is nothing you or I can do to be saved.  Our reaction should be of extreme gratitude.  You and I faithfully and humbly believe–that’s it!  Our eternity is sealed.  Our earthly life is led in gratitude.  We can only thank and praise our Heavenly Father.

Expect difficulties

Acts 14:22b “…We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” Human logic would conclude that as faithful believing followers of our Almighty God who has ultimate power over all existence, we would live the ultimate relaxed and successfully healthy lives possible on this earth.  Our loving God says–no, you will suffer many hardships on this earth both for Me and because of Me.  Why would God determine we live that life?  Multiple reasons—so we develop a strong faith–so we have opportunity to show our love for Him–so He can show His love for us by guiding us through hardship–to help us develop character and perseverance–and maybe the ultimate–so we look forward to the magnificent life we are about to enjoy eternally by being faithful.  We ultimately must say–we are privileged to suffer and persevere–our future looks great!!  

Joy

Acts 13:52 “And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” The disciples brought the news of salvation wherever they went.  That was their purpose although they were often criticized, physically abused and were ill-treated because of jealousy.  Yet, they continually knew their responsibility was to joyfully share the news of the Gospel.  You and I are no different.  It is our responsibility to spread the best news ever heard.  This weekend is filled with emotion.  We are sad because of Good Friday and are joyful because of Easter and the Resurrection.  Though you might be criticized because of your faith–remain joyful because of your faith. Have a great weekend.

Promises never fail

Acts 13:32-33a “We tell you the good news: What God promised our ancestors he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus. Our human minds find it very difficult to understand the power of God.  We don’t have any word which adequately can describe the magnificence of God.  There is no superlative which is superlative enough.  When God makes a statement, you and I listen intently.  His statements are reliable.  His promises binding.  His love absolute.  It is impossible for God to do otherwise.  What has He promised you and me?  The answer is exactly why we study His Word.  What is a Promise He has made you?