Day 323: Acts 14:14 - 16:40

This passage is a very great one to read after the previous group of scriptures because it is a very interesting contrast. In the last group of scriptures that we read, the devil was trying to halt the Word of God by using very intimidating external sources such as jails and powerful people in direct opposition to God's Word. In these passages, we see him try to stop the Word by much more subtle "internal" influences. The first internal influence we see in these verses is the use of religion to stop God's Word. Although the topic of circumcision for the Gentiles was a valid discussion, there was a very big possibility that the Word of God could have been stopped dead in its tracks if it hadn't been for the men of God who stood up and listened to the Holy Spirit rather than opinions. The other potential roadblock was the potential "church drama" between Paul and Barnabas and their opinions of John Mark. Although we don't hear alot of teaching regarding this part of the story, I believe it's an important part to consider because if you've spent any time in the ministry, I think you will agree that politics and drama can seriously choke out the Word of God if we're not careful. Thankfully, we can see that both of these situations were dealt with in a Godly manner, and once again, God's Word was about to spread farther and faster because these men of God were not willing to be distracted or deterred from what God had called them to.

- Lord, help me to be mindful of the more subtle "internal" influences that may try to sneak in and choke out Your Word. Help me to always stay focussed and remember that I'm not called to avoid conflict, but rather to utilize the conflict in a way that will advance Your kingdom. -