Trial Brings Revival ~Acts 8:4-8

Life can be difficult; filled with adversity, unplanned trials, hectic schedules, and unwanted errands. But as we are going about our daily lives scarred by adversity or trial we are given something which makes the hard times meaningful.  We have been given the good news. Sharing the good news of Jesus Christ makes everything meaningful! Nothing is wasted. A mundane trip to the grocery store, a unexpected call into the office, or an unplanned visitor can turn into an opportunity to share the gospel and make disciples. The question is are our eyes open to see the moments?

“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction.” 1 Timothy 4:2

                Spirit-filled individuals, such as Phillip are exceptionally dangerous to the work of the enemy. They present a unique challenge: The Name of Jesus Christ. On his own, there was nothing about Phillip that made him different from any of the other Jewish people of His day. He was one of the seven men chosen to serve as “Deacons.” He was a likely a Hellenistic Jew. What set Philip apart was the power within him. He was a man “full of the Holy Spirit.”

Our life ought to be exemplary. Knowing this, that ourght actions reflect back upon the God we follow and the faith we hold. As many times is the case, our actions do more to validate or nullify our faith than our words. It is for this reason that Peter encourages believers to:

“Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of visitation.” 1 Peter2:12.

Paul echoes these words to the church at Ephesus when he calls them to be imitators of God.

“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.” Ephesians 5:1-2

This is how the term “Christians” came about. Because everywhere Christ’s followers went they caused trouble, healed the sick, raised the dead, and called people to repentance. They were “little Christs” and mighty signs followed them. What about us? Would there be enough evidence in our life to convict us of being “with Him?