Text: Acts 13:44-52
Prayer Pointers:
That the Word would gladden many hearts
That you not fall into jealousy
That you use your influence to God’s glory
WE READ THAT the notables of the town of Antioch in Pisidia decided to put a stop to the nonsense of Paul and Barnabas and ran them out of town. The story says that Paul and Barnabas end up at the town limits sign because the religious authorities became “jealous.”
There are two warnings for us in this passage.
The first is the question of jealousy. It is easy to find ourselves envious of others—we have put in the time, we have toiled long and yet unnoticed, we have said the same things those newcomers are saying, but no one listens us. The antidote to such feelings is to remember that the work in which we engage belongs to God! If we must be jealous, be jealous for the Lord, and ensure that he gets the glory.
The second is how we use our influence. It is tempting to use our authority to hold onto our power rather than use it to point others to God. We confuse “what we like” with “what God likes.” We must notice our own behavior! Do we gather a faction, or do we work for the good of all? Do we create roadblocks to people’s creativity, or do we encourage others discover their callings and use their gifts? Do we stand apart and let others struggle, or do we join in and help? Do we welcome others or do we show them the city limits sign?
May your day be grace-filled ~ Pr. Dave Brooks