Acts 18:18-23 – God’s Strategy

Read Acts 18:18-23

I’ve read that Paul’s time in Corinth was one of the most strategic times in his ministry. We know that Corinth was a tumultuous place full of materialism and other vices. There was even a Temple of Aphrodite towering over the city. I recently learned that the word, “corinthianize” was a synonym for fornication. It was the leading commercial city of Greece. Paul persevered and preached and taught there for quite a while, as that was God’s desire and strategy. Two more books of the Bible are dedicated to this community of believers.

This passage brings Paul’s second missionary journey to an end as Paul returns to Antioch. There have been perils and valleys, but the Lord was always faithful. We’ve seen how Paul navigated all of these trials and how God intervened. In today’s reading, I see Paul as a man who wants to go home to Jerusalem. He wants to surround himself with Jews who have accepted Jesus. He needs to be recharged.

We all need those times in our life. Whether we are missionaries like Paul, or just folks living life in this world, we need to take rest. Having been involved in church ministry for many years, I can attest to how it takes a toll. When we retired a year and a half ago, I didn’t realize how tired we both were. We have been recharging now, and it feels good. We have been intentional about taking Sabbath rest, and it is a beautiful thing I wish I had done years ago.

We are fueled and ready to serve again. I asked God to plant us where he’d like us to bloom. On Easter, we attended a new church, and I immediately felt the Spirit prompting me. A music team was formed, new friends are being made, and God has led us to where he wants us to bloom at last. Having been healed and refreshed, we are ready to serve. I ask God each day to be the center of all our efforts.

How are you serving God these days? Are you in a period of refreshment and recharge, or are you seeking an assignment? Either way, you can be sure God is faithful. Ask him what his strategy for you might be.

Let’s pray. Lord, I thank you for the rejuvenation of my body and soul. It is so refreshing to be playing praise music again. Please forgive me for taking so long to listen to your direction. Your timing is now perfect. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you freely and without fear. I pray for those who must hide their faith.  Grant us all courage to boldly confess you as our Lord and Savior. May your Spirit inside me continue to give me confidence as I serve you. May my life be a reflection of your mercy and grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.