Tag: Proverbs 22:17-19
Agreement with the Holy Spirit!
Scripture reading for May 25th: Acts 15
Key scriptures for over-comers: Acts 15:28-29 “It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things.”
There was a dispute in the early church about whether or not circumcision was necessary for salvation. Some Jewish believers wanted to make this a requirement. Paul and Barnabas were in sharp disagreement with doing this! So they and others from the church decided to go to the apostles and elders in Jerusalem and settle this matter. They discussed this matter and heard all sides. Peter stood and stated what was clearly believed: “We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are.” (Acts 15:11) The council agreed with this ruling and added just a few recommendations to believers for their spiritual welfare. Peter noted that “it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and us. . .”. The Holy Spirit led them to a peaceful settlement of this dispute!
Observations for over-comers: Disputes between believers are part of life in this fallen world. Those in Christ’s Church seek to discuss and hear from God’s heart how to move forward in peace and unity! “Pay attention and listen to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach, for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips. So that your trust may be in the Lord, I teach you today, even you.” (Proverbs 22:17-19)
Spending time with Jesus!
Scripture reading for April 6th: John 1
Key scriptures for over-comers: John 1:36-39 “When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus. Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?” They said, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?” “Come,” He replied, “and you will see.” So they went and saw where He was staying, and spent that day with Him. It was about the tenth hour.”
John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus by calling people to repentance and warning them of God’s wrath against sin. As he saw Jesus, John identified Jesus as “The Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world.” (John 1:29) Two of John’s disciples left him to follow Jesus. Jesus asked them what they wanted from Him and they simply asked where Jesus was staying. Jesus invited them to come with Him and spend the day! What an amazing opportunity given to simple fishermen who were hungry to learn about Jesus! Jesus is calling us to spend time with Him today!
Key observations for over-comers: Relationships take time. Spending time with Jesus is the best way to hear His words, know His ways, and catch His heart! “Pay attention and listen to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach, for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips. So that your trust may be in the Lord, I teach you today, even you.” (Proverbs 22:17-19)