“And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away†(Acts 13:3).
Paul had some strong qualities that God could use to further the gospel. He was not only a Jew, but also a Roman citizen so he had accessibility to audiences of Jewish Greeks and Romans. He seemed to have few limits on where he could preach the gospel. He wasn’t always well received but that didn’t stop him from trying to win souls.
In today’s scripture we find Paul’s commissioning service for his first missionary journey. He preached and started churches in spite of any adversity he had to face. He had to face hardships like beatings, stonings, and shipwreck to promote the gospel. Though there is much debate to what it was, Paul was given a “thorn in the flesh.†Sometimes I think it was something to help him to always be dependent on God.
Another adversity he had to deal with was being put in prison. Even that didn’t stop him from being used of God. If he hadn’t faced times of imprisonment, we wouldn’t have had the writings which fill most of the New Testament today.
God continues to call missionaries who are willing to use all they are and have for his glory at home or abroad. We are all called to be witnesses wherever God leads even if it is only in our neighborhood or community. I’m paraphrasing something I have often heard told that as a Christian we are the missionary and any lost soul can be our field. Follow Paul’s example of faith and obedience. Be willing to say “yes†when God says “go.â€
Sue Winchester
Missouri
PRAY TOGETHER: As you read and complete the August study, ask God to help you adopt a missions lifestyle.
