Thoughts on Bible Reading: Ezra8 & Acts8 [shared by Andrew]

Ezra 8 tells of all the clans' reps gathering before the dangerous return journey to Jerusalem.

Ezra was ashamed to ask for the King's protection as he had told the King that God would protect and provide. 

What struck me was then how the people "fasted and petitioned" God. (God did indeed answer and protect them from bandits and enemies on their journey.)

Thot:  How can I better fast and ask God for answers and protection for what is important in the life journey He has called me to?

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Acts 8 introduces Saul the church persecutor, Philip healing and sharing with the Egyptian, and Simon the sorcerer's desire to buy the Holy Spirit.

We read that "Godly men"  "deeply mourned" for Stephen's death. It struck me that while our walk with Christ is to be one of joy, there will be times to mourn as well as times of loss - especially when God has enabled the love and emotions we feel.  

Thot: No need to fake it as a Christian - how can I better surrender to the Holy Spirit's leading even in how I feel?

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I love v22 where Peter and John are actively going around laying hands for believers to receive  the Holy Spirit.  Again, I sense the excitement of the early Church and in new believers today.

But I am also chastened by v21 where Simon is warned because his "heart is not right with God" and he needs to turn from a life "full of bitterness and captive to sin".

Thot: Are there areas of my heart I can better set right with God so that the Holy Spirit won't feel unwelcome?

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Andrew

  (Ec- I still have yr sweater, want me to drop it off? Or better still, can u and violet join us tonight? The discussion begins at 8 pm if u can't make dinner.)

Wishing all a blessed Friday and weekend ahead.