Worship

Scripture

I’ve recently listened to several interviews with a well-known psychologist. He’s made quite a name for himself simply sharing the truth in a culture that doesn’t seem to understand the definition of the word anymore. Due to the fact that many of his opinions are controversial, he receives some very extreme reactions from both fans and enemies. I’m sure he never expected his education in psychology to lead to death threats and hate mail, but nonetheless, he continues to weather the storm with a great deal of integrity. I suppose this perseverance is why I’ve become so interested in his thought process. I’ve rarely seen such a level of character displayed in anyone in the limelight. 

What’s even more gripping isn’t his bravery or his ability to look past the challenges of ruffling the feathers of society, but instead his willingness to share the struggle attached to it. Despite the heaviness of people sharing their hatred for him, or the allure of people deifying his very being, he recognizes “truth” must prevail over the reaction of the crowd. This re-prioritizing allows him to operate with a strength that often ruins others.

Paul had this same strength and I believe it came from the Spirit of God in him! In just one chapter, Paul goes from being nearly murdered to being worshiped! Acts 14:5 says Paul and Barnabas had to flee a  city after preaching a controversial truth that caused the people to make plans “to mistreat them and to stone them.” When they moved on to the next city, they were received completely differently! Acts 14:11 says “when the crowds saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in Lycaonian, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!” 

These reactions didn’t lead Paul, the Spirit of God led Paul! The truth of the gospel was far greater than the potential dangers of death or pride that could have easily ensnared another man. Paul was so moved by the potential of “ new life in Christ” for those he preached to that nothing could stand in his way. No crowd’s reaction could sway him from sharing the truth of the gospel.

Prayer

HONOR GOD

Colossians 3:17

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Consider it a privilege that we get to be ambassadors for the Lord. The way that we carry ourselves and communicate should be a reflection of who God is. Thank him for bestowing that honor on you 

ASK GOD

Ephesians 6:18-20

With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Ask God with perseverance. Knowing that when you knock on the door he listens. 

SUBMIT TO GOD

Romans 12:2 

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

The process of our minds being renewed is one of submission to God. Often we believe we know what is best for us, but let God’s word and His Spirit lead you to a place of transformation. 

CLOSING PRAYER

God, as I surrender to You fully. I don’t want anything to hold me back from the fruit You have available to me. Today I offer each and every area of my life to You, even the ones I’ve held onto in the past. Your ways are higher than mine and I can trust You with everything.  In Jesus Name, Amen.