Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Day 329 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith)
continues as I move further into the New Testament - this morning
focusing on Paul's second missionary journey which my commentary* describes as "...a visit [where] Paul hopes to observe how the churches are developing and lend the weight of his actual presence to resolving the circumcision question about which he has written." During this missionary journey, Paul meets a number of individuals who become significant in growing the church, including Timothy, Lydia, and Priscilla and Aquila.
*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®). Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition.
One of the most remarkable passages during this journey is when Paul and Silas were preaching in Philippi, where they were beat and thrown into prison (Acts 16:16-40). Even after suffering a brutal beating, and after being thrown in prison, they found the will to praise and worship God! We may not be beaten and thrown into prison but are to look for God in difficult circumstances as He is always at work.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who has always been at work even during the most challenging of times - thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such blessing and love. I worry and I have other sins. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
