THROUGH THE BIBLE IN THREE YEARS


DAILY DEVOTIONS

HI!

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The pastor was preaching during the morning worship service. Four cows that had fallen off a truck out on the highway, wandered in through the front door. Then they came down the aisle and began grazing on the flowers at the altar.

The pastor never missed a beat. He said, "This just shows that we have an "open door" policy!"

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Acts 13:1-3
1 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
2 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
3 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
KJV

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The church at Antioch had an "open door" policy. From the names of those given in verse 1, we can tell the diversity of people. Named are:
Barnabas, a jew;
Simeon (Niger), from the color of his hair or skin;
Lucius, a roman consul;
and Manaen, who was possibly the foster brother of Herod (the governor).

Though these men were obviously from varying backgrounds, they came together under the guidance of the Lord. They were called of God to work together as "prophets and teachers" in the building up of the church. The church at Antioch was considered a great church.

First they "ministered" to the Lord and to one another. The word for "ministered" is a form of the Greek word which means to serve. These not only ministered to the Lord with preaching, teaching, praise and worship; but they also cared for and served one another willingly.

Next they "fasted." These took time to separate themselves from worldly desires so that they might be close to the Lord.

Next they listened to God. Their listening caused them to realize the Holy Spirit was calling Saul and Barnabas for mission work.

Next they performed God's will. Baranbas and Saul were commissioned to go and begin new churches.

Christians, if you want to be part of a great church, then you must follow the Biblical example.
Learn and grow spiritually so that you will minister.
Take time to separate yourself from worldly desires by fasting and listen to God.
Then, be willing to perform under divine calling.

Love ya,
Bruce