PASTORS' DAILY DEVOTIONAL
May
12
12
Imitating Paul and Jesus
Rod Shimabukuro
Scripture
And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, 1 Thessalonians 1:6
Observation
The Christians modeled Paul’s life and testimony - receiving the Word of God even in affliction. Suffering can be a deterrent from us receiving and growing in faith in Christ. Paul preached and taught the gospel with strong conviction, in the power of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God has to be involved in our lives to have winning attitudes when faced with adversity.
Application
I see my need for the joy of His Spirit’s presence, helping me to receive HIs Word when I’m faced with suffering, hard times. My hard times seems to be more internal, hidden from man’s eye’s. My suffering is more self inflicted - when I deal with my lusts, pride and selfish desires. I’m learning so much studying Paul’s life and desire to be an imitator of Paul and our God! I need to have a teachable heart, always willing and ready to receive God’s Word. In order to receive God’s Word, I must be more disciplined in my study and memorizing the Scriptures.
Prayer
Holy Spirit - You are amazingly awesome! Thank you for filling me with Your joy and helping me to be an imitator of Jesus! You know the help I need, especially when I face difficult times.
