Thoughts from the Week: 11/4/22

Each Friday, I like to share some thoughts, learnings, and reflections from my quiet times during the week. I hope they’re encouraging and helpful!

Be blessed this week,

Pastor Hugh

When the Body of Christ is strengthened in faith the conversion of souls becomes commonplace.

“So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.” Acts 16:5

It is the Spirit of Jesus who opens a person’s heart to faith in Him.

“A woman named Lydia was listening; she was a seller of purple fabrics from the city of Thyatira, and a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to the things spoken by Paul.” Acts 16:14

Intimacy in Bible study leads one to an eagerness for Bible study.

“Now these people were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.” Acts 17:11

The Spirit of Jesus stirs believers to testify of Him.

“Now while Paul was waiting for them in Athens, his spirit was being provoked within him as he observed that the city was full of idols.” Acts 17:16

We must remember that Jesus does not need us, we need Him.

“nor is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, since He Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things;” Acts 17:25

Boldness in our faith is rooted in the knowledge that Jesus is present and will deliver us.

“And the Lord said to Paul by a vision at night, ‘Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you, for I have many people in this city.’” Acts 18:9-10

The proclamation of the Gospel involves reasoning and persuasion which may take a long time.

“And he entered the synagogue and continued speaking out boldly for three months, having discussions and persuading them about the kingdom of God…..This took place for two years, so that all who lived in Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Greeks.” Acts 19:8 & 10

*All Scripture from the English Standard Version Bible.