Acts 13:13-43 – They Got It

Read Acts 13:13-43

Paul and Barnabas continue on in their journey, together with their companions.  Today’s reading takes place in a synagogue with both Jews (referred to as Men of Israel) and Gentiles, referred to as God-fearing Gentiles. This gathering was “mixed” which reveals the tolerance for co-mingling was improving in this area. I doubt this kind of cross-cultural mix could be found in Jerusalem! Interesting that those leading the service, referred to as “prophets,” recognized Paul and Barnabas as having a message they should all hear. God was orchestrating something beautiful.

The Spirit stirred in them. The same Spirit that had commissioned Paul and Barnabas to get the word out. Clearly, the Spirit was alive in these people and had prepared them to hear the message proclaimed that day. The message was simple. It connected stories and beliefs they had had all along and bridged it with the new reality of God’s grace. Old Testament meets New Testament. The people were hungry for more.

While John Mark has returned to Jerusalem, we can’t forget that it’s Paul, Barnabas and several others in their traveling party. God had formed a small group of men, all from different backgrounds. If you are going start a movement around the world, how wise it is to bring together leaders each with their own rich heritage.

We can take from this the importance of looking to those filled with the Spirit when making big life decisions so we can know the will of God. The tendency in our fast paced, instant gratification society is to expect a clear answer right away, maybe even before we ask. We often rush ahead before God, and that’s when we get intro trouble. Satan is waiting to take hold of us when we are in those moments of weakness. He will rush to put ideas and plans into our heads that are not God’s plans. When we fail or hit a dead end, we can be sure it wasn’t a God move.

Don’t be afraid to take time to resonate with an issue or decision. While it can be almost painful to wait, know that having the assurance God is with you is worth the wait. You won’t spin your wheels. You will be led to the perfect outcome. Look for those people in your life who pray for you, whose relationship with God is respectful and grace-filled. Their counsel will be of great consolation to you. God can use you as a support system for someone else walking through a tough spot. Be ready for that, too.

Be open. Be listening. Be watching for the right moment to proceed. God is walking with you and will lead you to the right decision. Just as he led Paul to speak to these particular people on this particular day. Paul listened and followed. He associated with the prophets God provided. We receive God’s provision, too. Here’s a song to help you focus on God’s provision. Listen to this song, “The Voice of Truth”.

Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for your provision in my life. I ask forgiveness for those times I haven’t waited long enough to hear your voice clearly. I am working on that. I trust your Spirit inside and seek clarity to determine if it’s your Spirit or just my own thoughts. I long to be more intentional in my walk of faith. Use me to be the voice of wisdom for those seeking your path. Circle round our children as they make their way in this world. Watch over them, bringing them spirit filled guides. Help me to recognize when my guide is giving me the nudge. I want to be in your will. In Jesus’ name. Amen.