-Devotion by Kristy Cisneros (SC)
Today’s reading in 1 Samuel 5-6 is so thought-provoking. I can’t help but wonder, how could these people be directly confronted with the power of God and not be convinced to follow Him as the one true God and to forsake all other gods? They literally witnessed firsthand the terrifying wrath of God Almighty as they were plagued with tumors and their “god” Dagon was reduced to a beheaded and dismembered statue. In our modern times, it is truly mind-boggling to me that anyone can see the beauty and splendor of earth (the variety of flowers, trees, natural landscapes, etc.) and our amazing bodies (immune system, regeneration, etc.) and conclude it happened by mere explosive chance. It reminds me that we can’t take it personally when people don’t accept the gospel message in spite of our best efforts. We have to be faithful that God knows hearts and He can find a way to reach them if their hearts are open. Today’s reading in Acts 26 is such a great testimony to that concept. Paul testifies to King Agrippa about his actions toward Christians while he was a Pharisee:
9 In fact, I myself was convinced that it was necessary to do many things in opposition to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10 I actually did this in Jerusalem, and I locked up many of the saints in prison, since I had received authority for that from the chief priests. When they were put to death, I was in agreement against them. 11 In all the synagogues I often punished them and tried to make them blaspheme. Since I was terribly enraged at them, I pursued them even to foreign cities. (CSBA)
God knew Paul’s heart and he used Jesus Christ to reach Paul. Paul had to literally be struck blind before he could finally “see” the light. We are wisely advised in Matthew 10:14 regarding what to do when others reject the gospel message we share:
14 And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town.
It’s also important to remember that we could be planting a seed that might bear fruit down the road because God will see to it that it comes to fruition based on that person’s heart. 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 reminds us of this important point:
6 I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. 7 So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. 8 He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wages according to his labor. 9 For we are God’s fellow workers. You are God’s field, God’s building. (ESV)
In the meantime, we must not give up as advised in Galatians 6:9:
9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (ESV)
When I signed up for today’s devotion, I did so specifically because Psalm 46 is one of my absolute favorite passages in the Bible; therefore, I can’t end this devotion without tying in this beloved chapter. This passage is a great reminder that when we encounter trouble in this world (including resistance to the gospel message), we can be comforted by verse 1 that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (ESV) Be obedient and share the gospel message, and then give it to God.
9 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress . (ESV)
Reflection Questions
- What were some of Paul’s experiences in sharing the gospel message?
- What have your experiences been in sharing the gospel message? Do you let the fear of, or past negative reactions keep you from trying?
- What can you learn from Paul?
- What makes God and His Son so worthy of sharing with others? What happens when we don’t?
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, You are the One True God – worthy of all praise and worship and worthy of our dedication to sharing the good news. I confess the times I have not taken advantage of all the opportunities You place before me to share what a great, worthy God You are. Help me be who You want me to be. Help me learn from Paul and boldly, with a heart of compassion and urgency, share with others who You are and what You and Your Son have done and will do. Thank You for opening and changing hearts and being the help I need today.
Seek Grow Love 