Day 179: Job 13-15; Acts 8:26-40

Let's keep this thread going. Now Philip the layman reminds us that everyone matters in the Body of Christ and that everyone is part of fulfilling the Great Commission (to go disciple-making in all nations). He has been used greatly of God in Samaria, now he is about to influence the world for Jesus (Acts 8:26-40). Here's my take-away from Philip. He obeys God's direction...he goes when God sends His messenger to lead him forward in mission. Obedience is key. It is where we experience the blessing of partnering with Jesus. He listens to the Holy Spirit, who has perfectly prepared the whole scenario (a divine appointment) for this God-encounter. He knows the Word of God, so when the Scripture is opened, he makes the application to Jesus (yes, everyone should study in order to give an answer when the opportunity arises). Trust the Holy Spirit to remind you of what you have studied, and also to have prepared the hearer to receive the Word. He invites decision, introducing the eunuch to Jesus and he welcomes him into God's family through baptism. Then, when the eunuch continues on his homeward journey with the joy of Jesus, he goes on his way sharing the great Good News wherever he goes. Oh, the lessons we can learn from ordinary people who do extraordinary things because they love Jesus and are living in the power of the Holy Spirit. What can you and I take home today from the example of Philip?

P.S. We'll meet Philip again...well, we'll meet his daughters who have picked up the torch from their dad and are proclaiming the great Good News. Pass it on!