Fear and encouragement

I just completed reading the book of Acts and have been reflecting especially on the Apostle Paul. He certainly had a lot to discourage him along with much encouragement, yet he continued to trust the Lord and boldly move ahead. Often he was surrounded by many sinful influences and corrupting pressures but he was able to move through them without being influenced by them, leaving behind a tremendous impact as lives were transformed. In spite of the "problems" in Corinth and Ephesus many growing churches were established through his efforts. Certainly his resolve coupled with the Holy Spirit accomplished much! It was exciting to see how God used some of the persecution to expand the gospel into Judea and Samaria. Acts 9:31 says; "The church then had peace throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, and it became stronger as the believers lived in the fear of the Lord. And with the encouragement of the Holy Spirit, it grew in numbers." A combination that we usually do not combine in our thinking...fear and encouragement. But what a testimony to the believers obedience and God's faithfulness.

I have been helping friend Keith with his fathers home that had water damage and should have the final work completed when the carpeting and kitchen vinyl are in place next Thursday. Tomorrow (Saturday) the family and some friends will be coming to complete the sorting and emptying of the house, so I am sure we will all be busy. It is always difficult to dismantle the home of a family member when living several hours away.

Thanks so much for your prayers.

Love to you all,

Chuck