Lesson for 11/29

Hey all, the Sunday school lesson for tomorrow comes from Acts 18:1-11. Its titled "Teaching God's Word. As we begin to read the scriptures - Paul is yet again traveling and preaching the good news of Jesus Christ. Over the course of the previous lessons we can see the zeal and passion Paul has for bringing people closer to God, through Jesus Christ. Verse 4 brings out how "each Sabbath found Paul at the synagogue, trying to convince the Jews and Greeks alike. Once Silas and Timothy arrived, Paul spent ALL of his time preaching the word. He testified to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah. Verse 6 says "but when they oppressed and insulted him, Paul shook the dust from his clothes and said, "Your blood is upon your own heads - I am innocent. From now on I will go preach to the Gentiles" (Non Jews) - Then Paul left. At times in our lives today, what we have to offer is not always valued. We may find ourselves putting forth the best effort we know how, and still get mocked by the people around us; whether on the job, school, or even church. But take a look at what God says to Paul in verse 9! "One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision and told him, "Don't be afraid! Speak out! Don't be silent! For I am with you, and no one will attack or harm you, for many people in this city belong to me." So Paul stays there for the next year and a half, teaching the word of God! What encouragement this is for us! Despite the adversity we may face - let us understand that we should not be afraid. God does not give us a Spirit of fear, but of love and Faith! If what you are doing is of God, and is making a positive impact on where ever God has placed you, then you will prevail! Verse 10 again says, " For I am with you, and no one will attach or harm you..." Keeping that scripture in mind when things appear tough or don't look good - is a blessing in itself. The end of verse 10 says " for many people in this city belong to me" - One tactic of the enemy is to make you feel alone, that no one understands you and everyone is against your decisions; but God has people that belong to Him! Meaning there is someone that He has purposely aligned in your life to be that stone of encouragement! To support your decisions, to help you along the way! They are often right under our noses; willing, ready, and prayed up! So that we all can do like Paul did in verse 11! He stayed there for the next year and a half, teaching the word of God. What ever ministry, outreach, gospel, purpose or mission you have; stick with it! No matter how bad things may initially appear, take this lesson to heart and trust that God is always with you!

Thanks for reading, God bless!