Monday, October 19, 2009

Go . . . where God says go

They manage an inner city ministry that helps those who are unable to help themselves. They help people that live under bridges and in cardboard box shelters . . . that need a meal . . . some clothing . . . and a way out.  Their response to the need of these people is remarkable.  God said go . . . so they did . . . no complaining . . . no hesitation . . . they did what God said to do.   Lives are changed each day because of their commitment to Christ.
 The rarity of individuals willing to leave their position and possessions does not need to be proved . . . we recognize the unusual-over-the-top-commitment  . . . of those that live to make a difference for Christ. The thing is, these are the individuals that understand their purpose of life. The Apostle Paul discussed the same purpose:  So that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else. . . Philippians 1:13
Paul was imprisoned . . . confined. . .and chained to guards.  Prison in the first century is inconceivable by today’s standards.  Suffice it to say . . . Paul suffered.  He was held by the  praetorian guard . . . part of the "Roman head-quarters"  . . . a big-deal . . . the focal point of position, prestige, and power.   The Apostle Paul could never have walked into the head-quarters with the purpose to preach; however, he was ignited by the Holy Spirit and preached to the Romans as their prisoner. 

Paul wrote . . . And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. Romans 8:27-29
 Chains  did not constrain or limit the gospel but allowed the message (in word and example) of Christ to be shared to the Romans; it was unprecedented.  His purpose to bring the message of Christ did not change when his circumstances changed.  It was known that Paul’s imprisonment occurred because he chose to live for Christ. His life became a profound message.  Those who love God . . . those called according to His purpose . . . can know in confidence . . . that every detail of every circumstance will be worked together for good. 
Stop . . . be aware of the presence of God . . . go where God says to go . . . do what God says to do . . . anticipate every detail to be worked together for good . . . even when life seems impossible.

Learning with you to KICK START the day . . . and go where God says to go,
Pastor Kerrie

(interAct written by Kerrie Palmer © 2009 All Rights Reserved)
kpalmer@hillchurch.com ~Church on the Hill~700 N. Hill Rd.~McMinnville, OR 97128~503.472.8476 ~www.hillchurch.com~ interAct
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interAct: Bible Study  & interAct Study: week 4  & interAct Study: week 4 insights
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