The Hand Of The Lord

Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that took place over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, and they spoke the word to no one except Jews. But among them were some men of Cyprus and Cyrene who, on coming to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists also, proclaiming the Lord Jesus. The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number became believers and turned to the Lord. News of this came of the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he came and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast devotion; for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were brought to the Lord. Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for an entire year they met with the church and taught a great many people, and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called “Christians.”

Acts 11:19-26

Do you help people by giving them a push, when they need one? There may be days when you don’t feel up to giving that push, but you need to push yourself to do just that. There is something about recognizing our lack of motivation and then choosing to be responsive that helps us follow through. God is interested in our faith and our obedience – not just our good intentions. Next time you are tempted to shirk your duties, ask God for the grace to do it anyway.

Obedience is faith in action.

Our Daily Bread – October 28, 2007