October 20: Sharing Hope in Hard Times
Scripture reading: Philippians 1:19–24
Key verse: Philippians 1:20
According to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.
Upon entering a city, Paul immediately went into the local temple, synagogue, or meeting place to present the gospel message to the Jews. However, his words were often met with anger and rejection. But God did not allow Paul to suffer disgrace.
He had given the Jewish people a promise: He would send the Messiah to them for their redemption. Over the years their hearts had hardened. In piety they worshiped God but refused His offer of redemption. Going through the motions of worship cannot save anyone.
Israel missed God’s greatest gift of love when they rejected the Lord Jesus Christ. The years they spent in suffering were meant to draw them closer to God. Yet even this bitter fate did not move them to heartfelt worship.
When you live above the hardness of your circumstances as Paul did, God will protect and keep you. He will also preserve the message of hope He has commanded you to take to a lost and dying world. Don’t let others’ criticism keep you from obeying God. When you feel discouraged, go to Him. Ask Him to plant Scripture in your heart, so you may experience His hope in desperate times and share that hope with others.
Lord, use me for Your kingdom purposes. Plant Your Word in my heart so I can share hope with others.
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There is a typo on the Affirmation of Faith page where it reads three persons. It should read three spirits.