The Vineyard- June 30, 2013

The Vineyard

I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. – John 15:5

Acts 9:1-19a

Pray for God to speak to you through the reading of his word. 

Read the passage.

-          Out-sourcing

o   Saul comes to faith in Christ not because of some inner struggle, but because of the external power of God.  Do you allow God to act on you, or are you trying to transform yourself into a better person, and a stronger Christian using only your own strength and resolve? 

o   In the moments after his encounter with the risen Lord, Saul was helpless.  He had to be led by the hand, to be taught, to be prayed over.  Are you willing to acknowledge your need for God and for others?  Are you willing to rely on God as a child relies on a parent? 

-          Choosing Hope above Fear

o   Ananias’ did not take counsel of his fears, and instead did as God commanded and went to his enemy Saul, greeting him as his brother.  Do you truly desire to see your enemies become your brothers and sisters in Christ? 

Pray that we will allow God to work in us, providing us strength through the Holy Spirit that is greater than our own strength. 

Pray that our enemies will come to Christ, and one day be our brothers and sisters.