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PROVIDENCE FOR MISSIONS
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2
Acts 13:14-15

John 17:6-8

 

“I have manifested thy name
unto the men which thou

gavest me out of the world…”

 

PROVIDENCE FOR MISSIONS
 
When God directs the missions work, there will always be an open door prepared for the missionary. Whether he sees it immediately or after many years, God has His own timing. It is all up to God. What the missionary must be confident of is that God does not send him without reason. The missionary must wait patiently for the purpose of God, looking ahead and trusting in His good hand to arrange everything for the missionary.
 
An open door: Antioch in Pisidia was in Asia Minor. It was the military and administrative centre of the province of Galatia, and was a strategic place from which the missions team could radiate to the neighbouring cities in the whole region. God brought the missionaries there, and the synagogue in the city was His open door for them. The Jewish communities always presented an opportunity for them as the Jews had been taught the prophecies concerning Christ. Paul and Barnabas, being Jews themselves, settled into the assembly without any restrictions. 
 
An opportunity to exhort: By God’s providence, the hearts of the rulers of the synagogue were moved to call for Paul and the team to say something. Indeed, the Lord had arranged their journey step by step and they were given the opportunity to speak. After reading the law and the prophets which prepared the hearts of the people in the assembly, Paul was invited to speak. It is probable that what was read were portions of the Scriptures that spoke of the Messiah. As the saying goes, “strike while the iron is hot,” Paul wasted no time to proclaim the gospel.
 
Every missionary must always be prepared to speak up for his Lord. Read 2 Timothy 4:1-2. Remember that all believers are given the Great Commission, therefore we must all be ready to speak for our Lord. You may not be so eloquent and systematic in presenting the gospel, but when you pray to God for the Holy Spirit to open your mouth, He is faithful to supply the right words. Your testimony of how the Lord led you to believe in Him is already a wonderful message. Be prepared always!
 
THOUGHT: Am I thankful for the opportunities to share the gospel?

PRAYER: Father, may I rejoice over saved souls.

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