Take note...

Bible College is great!! Studying theology is more than what I thought it would be!! And when I came home over the holidays I felt a difference in my confidence to lead worship and even to preach. It was fabulous and releasing. I even got a few compliments after service. Stuff like “It really shows that you have been to bible college” or “Very good man, you must really be studying hard in bible college there” the best was “I’m glad you went to study and we are supporting you, it’s money worth invested and it shows”. I must admit these did get to my head.

But God is so faithful, and in the last year and a half He has especially been faithful in His task of teaching me humility. To that end, as I reflected on preaching as gift and whether I have it or not and as I looked back over the last few months God taught me something new and fresh. I had been basking in the light of these compliments and in some tiny way had justified being sent to bible college and verified that I was studying hard there. People had heard my sermons and experienced my worship leading and they took note that I had just returned from Bible college, and that brought joy to my heart.

But then God brought my attention to Acts 4:13. People heard the messages of Peter and John, they witnessed their miracles and were amazed at their courage…. “and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” What a testimony!! When my lifestyle and my words come together to make people stand back in amazement and wonder and take note that I am walking with a real and living God.

What is it in your life that makes people take note that you spend time with Jesus? Are you a really good person and so look like a handful in the world who are as well? Or are you a Godly person and hence reflect the character of God? In the Old Testament after Moses went up to meet with the Lord his face became radiant; it would shine and it was so bright that he had to wear a veil over his face so others could look at him. After the cross the Spirit of God indwells us, we reflect that same glory. You may ask how? The answer is simple… through our lives.

Let’s plan our days, organize our priorities, build our relationships, control our thoughts and actions so that people would see our lives and take note that we have been with Jesus.

God bless...

Ps: For more on the story, read Acts chapter 4.

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