SCRIPTURE: Acts 28:11-16
“At the sight of these people Paul thanked God and was encouraged.” (Acts 28:15)
Paul’s mission was to spread the message of Jesus to Rome and beyond.
Here he sees a group of believers, and is encouraged.
It is a confirmation from God that his work is not in vain.
He may be about to face Caesar, and death, but the kingdom of Jesus is advancing.
I’m reminded of when Jacob met Esau, and Esau welcomed him with open arms.
“For to see your face is like seeing the face of God, now that you have received me favorably.” (Genesis 33:10)
To see these believers was to see the face of Jesus, to be assured that Jesus was with him in this.
We can see the face of Jesus in positive experiences too.
Do we pause when something good happens, and give thanks to God?
Do we make the connection, and see God’s confirmation of His presence and purpose for us?
Or are we like the lepers healed by Jesus, not returning to thank Him?
Take time today to look for the face of Jesus in your circumstances.
Take time to give thanks for His loving encouragement.
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, You are always showing Your face through people and circumstances. Instead of focusing on the negative, help me to focus on this many reminders that You are with me, and You are fulfilling Your purpose through me.
Observations/Application
Finally.
Finally at his destination.
And what an encouragement!
He was met by members of the family of God – the communion of the saints. A prisoner being welcomed and embraced. God givig His people strength.
Oneanothering.
Encouraging.
Empowering. Strengthening. Embracing. Enabling. Blessing.
We/I am never alone.
As I follow His purpose for my life I may be a blessing to others and others are a blessing to me. And I must be sure to make others aware of Your mission in my life so that others my also bless me on my way for we are family – brothers and sisters in the Lord. Children of the King and we all live for Him.
(1) Out in the high-ways and by-ways of life,
Many are weary amd sad;
Carry the sunshine where darkness is rife,
Making the sorrowing glad.
CHORUS:
Make me a blessing, Make me a blessing —
Out of my life May Jesus shine;
Make me a blessing, O Savior, I pray,
Make me a blessing to someone today.
(2) Tell the sweet story of Christ and His love,
Tell of His power to forgive;
Others will trust Him if only you prove
True, every moment you live.
(3) Give as ’twas given to you in your need,
Love as the Master loved you;
Be to the helpless a helper indeed,
Unto your mission be true.