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While Paul likely had very specific plans regarding how to go about beginning new churches, there still would’ve been unforeseen circumstances arise. These circumstances may have forced Paul to change course or reconsider the timing of beginning these new churches.
What didn’t change, however, was his underlying goal. Paul understood that healthy disciples make more disciples, and healthy churches make more churches. As such, his commitment to his future plans was rooted in ensuring he had healthy disciples and healthy churches. He did this by ensuring his followers continually adhered to foundational Gospel principles.
Today, many people commit to their own future by ensuring they have money in the bank for a rainy day fund. When an unexpected expense arises, they have the funds to cover it. But like Paul, we need to be sure our emotional and spiritual well-being has reserves for whatever may come our way. Our commitment to the future requires that we are emotionally and spiritually prepared for anything that may try to thwart the plans God has instilled within us.
READING & PRAYERS:
PHILIPPIANS 4:10-14, EPHESIANS 6:10-20, EXODUS 14:14
QUESTION: In what ways are you emotionally and spiritually preparing for what is to come? In other words, are you currently building up reserves so that are you are prepared for anything that may try to thwart the plans God has given you?
Take a Step: Remember to continue utilizing the One Minute Pause app throughout the week. If possible, begin to explore and practice the 3, 5 or 10 minute pause to more deeply root yourself in Christ.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I recognize that I spend a lot of time and money on my education, home, and other payments, but don’t spend nearly as much time and energy on learning how to love You and others well. Today I simply pray that You will work in me in a tremendous way, creating a reserve of emotional and spiritual health so that I can remain fully committed to the purpose You have instilled within me. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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