And the Lord said to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent; for I am with you, and no man will attack you in order to harm you, for I have many people in this city. "And he settled there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them." (NAS)
Great confidence comes when we receive a confirmation from the word of the Lord. God is a revealing God and delights in giving to His children encouragement and hope. He speaks to us through the BIble, the circumstances of life, the indwelling Holy Spirit, prayer, and the counsel of godly people.
The Apostle Paul was experienced in ministry that often included difficulties and trials. He could easily anticipate that at any time a new struggle was coming. For him to anticipate what was coming next would have been normal. The majority of his struggles came at the hands of those to whom he ministered. He never knew what would come next. He could expect a beating or an imprisonment or both.
This time it was different. God spoke clearly to Paul about His protection. God gave him a vision that contained the hope and encouragement needed to carry on his ministry in Corinth. God's word was simply, "Do not be afraid." His instruction from God was to continue his ministry with the assurance that he would be safe.
Paul was renewed in his mission. He was empowered to continue sharing the gospel and teaching God's scripture to the Corinthians. Paul's normal length of stay at any place was from a few days to maybe a few months, but this time he stayed a year and six months making disciples by teaching the scriptures. The word from God was accompanied with the promise that many would respond to his message of salvation through Jesus.
Do you need a fresh word from God, or a renewal of your calling to serve the Lord right where you are? Listen as God speaks to you through the Bible, prayer godly counsel, and the still small voice of God's Spirit speaking to your heart. Go forward with a sense of hope and encouragement to fulfill His calling in your life.
________________A personal note from Dennis
Greetings from Starbucks in beautiful Tempe, AZ.
As you can see from the pictures it was Johnny's birthday this week. On March 8th he turned one year old. Mandy and John had a party for him at a local park. Lots of kids and their parents enjoyed the event. Johnny had his friends,
cousins, aunts and uncles, grandparents and great grand parents and of course Mom and Dad celebrate with him. He enjoyed every moment.Sandy and I will be at Dead Horse Ranch State Park camping with Burke, Bennett, and Collin this week. The weather in AZ is absolutely beautiful. We are looking forward to fishing, hiking and maybe eat a little also.
Thanks for your prayers for God to open doors of ministry for me and Sandy. Both of us continue to preach and teach and minister to people. As of Sunday, March 11, I have scheduled to preach a total of 29 messages by September 9th. I consider it such a privilege to share God's word
knowing that it never returns without accomplishing the purpose God intended. I would really appreciate your prayers as I prepare through prayer and study to preach.It is so good to hear from you and hear how you are doing and how God is at work in your life. I praise the Lord for you.
God bless you this week and may He encourage you in the ministry He has called you to perform. May you find a renewed energy and hope in all you do in the name of Jesus. ~ DGW
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