Acts 16:1-40
“So the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers”
A large portion of the Book of Acts is centered on Paul and his teachings, preaching and travels. From shipped wrecked, snake bites and prison, Paul’s journey was without a doubt eventful. All along the way his preaching and teaching inspire and convert many and it seems where ever he ends up, he is constantly singing and praising God.
Some of you reading this may know that I spent some time in the US military. I remember during my training we had this one rather strict Sargent. Of course it was his job to make us conform to the army way. He was always saying to the soldiers to remember the rules of the 5 “Ps” . . . I can still hear his voice:
“Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance”
Paul being our “Sargent” had a similar approach. I call it his 3Ps
PRAYER – v 13 On the Sabbath, we went outside the gate of the city to find a place for prayer and v 16 Once again we were going to the place of prayer
PREACH – v 13 We sat down and began to speak v 31 Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved V 32 They spoke the word of the Lord v 40 they went to the house of Lydia and encouraged them there
PRAISE – v 25 about midnight they were praying and singing praises to God
We all can take a lesson from Paul’s example – always be in prayer, be prepared and ready to encourage one and other, and praise our Lord
Paul said to pray without ceasing , always be ready to give an answer of hope, and giving thanks and praise regardless of our circumstance
We to can see his Church grow in faith !
In Him , BILL
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