Acts 18:9-11
Introduction
- Recall what we said last time about commitment
- it is based on the choice, not on the circumstances
- it is measured not in big things, but in small things
- it is not proven by intention, but by action
- Once you have chosen a church and have chosen to serve, it should be an unwavering decision, unaffected by our weaknesses and stubbornness.
- It starts with a personal decision and a personal desire, but it is followed by God’s blessing, and amplified by His love
- Sometimes there are discouraging, weak moments, but we should never let ourselves turn away from that decision
Let us compare ourselves to what Paul went through:
- Paul went through some trying times
- imprisoned
- stoned
- judged by people
- Paul was faced with frustrating results
- Acts 17:34
- 3. Paul experienced financial pressures
- the first thing he did was to look for a job
How to have unshakeable commitment:
- Be strengthened by the Word (v.9)
- turn to God, and ask what He has to say about your situation
- know that God always has something for us, in any circumstance of our life
- there is no situation for which God does not have an answer
- do not let your emotions lead you; let the Word of God lead you
- in your discouragement, do not distance yourself from God and the church
- Trust in God’s provision (v.10)
- no matter how desolate or desperate the situation, God is always with us and will never leave us
- let us take courage in the Word of God, for He holds the future, and has already paved the way for us