Saturday, February 22, 2014

Not Giving Up - Feb 22, 2014

Scripture: Acts 17-18
32 When they heard Paul speak about the resurrection of the dead, some laughed in contempt, but others said, “We want to hear more about this later.” 33 That ended Paul’s discussion with them,34 but some joined him and became believers. Among them were Dionysius, a member of the council, a woman named Damaris, and others with them. - Acts 17
4 Each Sabbath found Paul at the synagogue, trying to convince the Jews and Greeks alike. 5 And after Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul spent all his time preaching the word. He testified to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah. 6 But when they opposed and insulted him, Paul shook the dust from his clothes and said, “Your blood is upon your own heads—I am innocent. From now on I will go preach to the Gentiles.” 9 One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision and told him, “Don’t be afraid! Speak out! Don’t be silent! 10 For I am with you, and no one will attack and harm you, for many people in this city belong to me.” 11 So Paul stayed there for the next year and a half, teaching the word of God. - Acts 18


Message:
Some will some won't, so what? Next! We cannot allow hindrances to stop the work of GOD in our lives. We have to push through and persevere until we see the purpose of GOD being accomplished in every task that He has called us to take.

Observation/Promise:
We have to continue to do what GOD has called us to do in life. Like Paul and Silas, we cannot let discouragement of unbelief hinder us from doing the work of GOD in us. Some will believe in GOD but some will not, even old believers will not believe what GOD is doing in your life but we should depend on what they believe for us to decide what we ought to do. Whatever GOD has called you to do, do it! It will be difficult and there will be struggle but don't let others affect the way you serve and love GOD.
Command/Application:
Just look to GOD. Focus on Him because He is the only one perfect who cannot fail you. If GOD did not call you to give up, then don't stop, because only HE knows the end from the beginning and it will take a lot of faith but when you trust GOD, in the end it will all work out. Everything can go wrong now, but keep your eyes on GOD because HE knows the end and He will not allow you to persevere for nothing. Don't be afraid. But let GOD lead you every step of the way. Follow Him with all of your heart and He will make your paths straight.