Purpose Driven Adversity
March 6th, 2007Today’s Bible Study is from Acts Chapters 20-28
Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. #Acts 28:8-9
I remember an old song we used to sing at Bethel Temple in Dayton, OH. It’s been a long time since I’ve heard it, but I recall it something like this…
Jesus use me,
Oh, Lord, don’t refuse me,
Surely there’s a work that I can do.Even though it’s humble,
Lord, help my will to crumble,
Though the cost be great, I’ll work for You.
The last 8 chapters of Acts are action-packed. Shipwrecks, poisonous snakes, angry mobs. Paul’s life was constantly in jeopardy. Through it all, he never forgot his purpose. Everywhere he went, he was doing the work of the ministry. Healing the sick, preaching the Gospel, testifying about his experience.
Finally, he winds up in a rental home in a foreign land under house arrest a-la Martha Stewart. And what’s he doing while he awaits his eventual execution?
For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. #Acts 28:30-31
Today’s Prayer
Lord, use me. Grow in me a constant awareness of my purpose - to do what You want me to do, go where You want me to go and be who You want me to be.