The Ministry of the Spirit

 Job 9-10; Acts 13-14 

“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabus and Saul for the work to which I have called them…’ The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit…The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. But the Jews incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabus, and expelled them from their region.”

Acts 13:2, 4, 49, 50

The gospel spread throughout what is now Turkey as people listened to and obeyed the call of the Spirit to go and work with him.  Working with the Spirit includes sharing the words God gives, praying in his power to confirm his word, and enduring opposition and persecution. The enemy used “God-fearing women of high standing” in society to limit Paul’s and Barnabus’ ministry. We must guard our hearts against slander, judgmental attitudes, and fear, in order to avoid becoming instruments of the enemy who opposes the work of God. These God-fearing women probably felt they were honoring God in their persecution of Paul and Barnabus. Despite that persecution, or even because of it, the word of the Lord spread through the region. God’s word will multiply in others as we share it and live under its authority. There is no greater privilege than to be sent by the Spirit into the service of the Lord.

“Lord Jesus, thank you for your call on my life. I pray for grace to endure persecution and great love to overcome whatever opposes the gospel.”