"About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose. The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!” Acts 16:25-28
No doubt many of you watched the Super Bowl yesterday. And, if you were fortunate, you were surrounded by family and/or friends - some of which you may not like. Face it... we all have that one person that we just don't enjoy being around. Maybe it's your brother-in-law who knows everything and makes sure you know it too. Or maybe it's a friend that can never find the good in any situation and considers a frown a part of her outfit. Whatever the case, God has put them into your life, and you can be sure he has a purpose for it.
The book of Acts tells the story of Paul and Silas being thrown into a Roman prison for healing a slave girl. You can imagine the people and conditions there were not the most pleasant (prisons of that time were filthy and the guards could be brutal). Rather than complaining about the company they were placed with though, they prayed and sang songs to the Lord (as the other prisoners listened). When the doors flew open, most people would have run out of there faster than Usain Bolt (believed to be the fastest runner ever). The jailer, knowing he would face certain death for allowing his prisoners to escape, was ready to commit suicide. But imagine the jailer's surprise when he realized that Paul and Silas had not left! I love what happened next, "The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household." (v. 29-31)
When placed in a position or with people that are not what or who you would choose, instead of looking for a way out, try looking for a way in.... into their heart. Ask God what it is he would have you do. If you're willing, he will open the doors... even at a Super Bowl party.
Heavenly Father, thank you for loving us so much that you sent someone to share the gospel with us. I pray that we would continually be looking for opportunities and situations to do the same. In every circumstance, may we love and be kind to others, especially those that are hard to like. In doing so, I pray that they would see our peace and joy and want it for themselves. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
www.team413.org
Planet Shakers - Turn it Up
No comments:
Post a Comment