“One of them named Agabus stood up and began to indicate by the Spirit that there would certainly be a great famine all over the world. And this took place in the reign of Claudius.” (Acts 11:28)
I find it fascinating that the same God who supernaturally predicted the famine that would affect the whole world did not provide a supernatural solution for the famine for His people. God warned them it was coming, but He left the church to prepare with their own strength.
Christianity is not meant to remove us from the difficulties of this life – it is meant to instill within us the values to be the helpers during those difficulties. God didn’t send an angelic armada with food to stave off the famine – He sent His people to determine in their own hearts how they might relieve the suffering of others.
We ought to do as they did.
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: Acts 11:19-30
Questions to ask:
- How does this show the continuation of Jesus’ work now going on in the church?
- How is the gospel, Paul’s preaching, and/or Paul’s defense received?
- What is the Holy Spirit doing in this text?
- What in our reading shows how Paul handled adversity and difficulty?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision