I have been doing the readings but haven't made the time to think about what I am reading.
As I read the chapters this week, there were a lot of verses that were reminders of how I am now and where I would like to be...
I identify with Paul with his struggle in Romans 7:14-20...something like...I do what I don't want to do, but what I do want to do, I don't do...make sense? well, actions are directed by sinful nature or the Holy Spirit...so these verses remind us to keep it in check.
also another one is Romans 8:25.."but if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently." simply said, but another reminder to be truly thankful for what we do have, which is a lot of blessings, and for things yet to come...wait on the Lord with an expectant, hopeful attitude. yes, need to memorize this one and say it to myself whenever I wonder about the future!
Joy
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Acts 23-24
Throughout these two chapters, Paul testifies to the Sanhedrin ( the Jewish council/ruling body), making his case about his hope in Jesus. He is also moved around from place to place for protection from those who want to kill him and to stand trial and testify to the various governors that he did nothing wrong, just proclaiming the truth about Jesus.
I imagine Paul had to always be in the lookout, fearing for his life, tired of moving around and getting everyone upset...but in Acts 23:11, as Paul was probably alone and exhausted in his prison cell, the Lord reassured His presence and provision, reminding Paul that he was on the right track of obeying/following Him with furthering the gospel. However, there was much more to be done and it will only get tougher, so God strengthened and encouraged Paul by directly saying, "Take courage! As you have tesitfied about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome."
I am reminded about my pharmacy school days, I was about half way done with the program, but I just wanted to give up and call it quits...was physically getting sick and tired of studying non stop...but I knew God got me there in the first place so throughout it all, I prayed He would carry and strengthen me to complete the program. God was faithful! and continues to remain faithful in my life, challenging and surprising me, reminding me to be patient and trust Him more. So as God reminded Paul and also reminds us, may we take courage to press on each day to live a life that is pleasing in His sight, one of obedience and with joy to His daily call.
Joy
I imagine Paul had to always be in the lookout, fearing for his life, tired of moving around and getting everyone upset...but in Acts 23:11, as Paul was probably alone and exhausted in his prison cell, the Lord reassured His presence and provision, reminding Paul that he was on the right track of obeying/following Him with furthering the gospel. However, there was much more to be done and it will only get tougher, so God strengthened and encouraged Paul by directly saying, "Take courage! As you have tesitfied about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome."
I am reminded about my pharmacy school days, I was about half way done with the program, but I just wanted to give up and call it quits...was physically getting sick and tired of studying non stop...but I knew God got me there in the first place so throughout it all, I prayed He would carry and strengthen me to complete the program. God was faithful! and continues to remain faithful in my life, challenging and surprising me, reminding me to be patient and trust Him more. So as God reminded Paul and also reminds us, may we take courage to press on each day to live a life that is pleasing in His sight, one of obedience and with joy to His daily call.
Joy
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