S. O. A. P.
Here’s your 90 second AM devotional!
S-cripture:
Acts 15:39
They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus.
O-bservation:
Paul the Apostle did not want to take another chance on Barnabas’ nephew John Mark. Halfway through their first missionary trip, the young man had evidently gotten homesick and left the two older men to return home. As they were preparing to leave on their second journey, Barnabas insisted on taking the young man again. Paul reacted so that there was intense disagreement between the two friends, which led to a break-up. Paul took Silas and went one way while Barnabas took young John Mark and went another way.
A-pplication:
Sometimes “Disagreements” can lead to a good thing. Because of the “Disagreement” in this passage, the work of Jesus was actually multiplied. Barnabas’ name means “Son Of Encouragement.” He was able to give the young John Mark another shot, which led to the young preacher entering full-time Christian service. On the other hand, Paul and Silas planted new churches on their second journey together, which meant that it was a double win. Years later, Paul wrote to Timothy and said, “Bring John Mark with you when you come, I have found him to be helpful to me in the ministry” (2 Tim. 4:11, paraphrase). Honestly, sometimes God is right in the middle of your biggest … “DISAGREEMENTS.”
P-rayer:
Dear Jesus,
I am always amazed at how You’re able to turn even my “Disagreements” with others around for Your purpose. Most of all, I’m thankful for all the second chances You’ve given me. Amen
Comment (1)
Amen Pastor Rich, God Is Able