30/04/2021 - THE SERVICE LEADER

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This man heard Paul speaking. Paul, observing him intently and seeing that he had faith to be healed, Acts 14:9

The Almighty God was the One leading that service in Lystra. He used the apostle Paul in a wonderful way, guiding him away from persecution planned by the Jews, who joined the gentiles in a riot which could have ended his life. The love of God led Paul to Lystra and Derbe, where he’d be more useful to the kingdom and would have new experiences regarding the faith he professed.

God knows how to proceed, and that’s why those who live at His feet are successful when they do His work. To live at the feet of the Lord means to be open to what He says, just like Mary, Lazarus’ sister, did. Paul said he learned at the feet of Gamaliel, a Pharisee who was highly regarded in Judaism (Acts 22:3). But to learn at the feet of Christ gives us the opportunity of proceeding like Him, just as He did the Father’s will when He was here.

In Lystra, the Lord wonderfully guided the apostle in his speech and acts. The words Paul said produced faith in the heart of the man with lame feet, and he was healed. If this man hadn’t sat “at the feet of the apostle”, he wouldn’t have the necessary faith to be restored. When two people are joined under the move of the Holy Spirit, the power of God operates greatly.

Paul acted like someone who’s panning to find precious stones in the gravel, looking for something of value. This should be the attitude of those who preach the Word. We don’t know who will have faith to be healed, but whoever does, will receive healing from divine power. Without faith, it’s useless to pray for sick people to be healed or to determine something to happen. But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). The man had heard about Paul; and Paul, by looking at him, saw he had the necessary faith to be healed.

Here are good procedures for those looking for divine favor: paying attention to services and checking if sermons are aligned with Scriptures. Also, they should surrender their lives in the altar of the Lord. To constantly depend on the Most High is the most important thing. When we please Him, speaking according to the law and to the testimony God concedes through His Word, we will be accepted (Isaiah 8:20).

Don’t waste time with the things of this world or with the amount of money you could make if you weren’t going to church. The Father will give you much more if you live in His presence. He promised to never forsake or abandon us (Joshua 1:5). God is known for always keeping His word. He is faithful and worthy of all glory, honor and praise. Love Him above everything!

When the Lord shows you something, focus your attention on it, as you meditate on what you’ve learned from Jesus. Then, feeling the touch of heaven, determine things with the assurance that God’s operation will happen. A true servant’s orders must be specific, because the Most High isn’t a God of confusion. Hallelujah! 

In Christ, with love,

Dr. Soares