The Fire WithinMuestra

LEFT FOR DEAD

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Paul had already begun preaching in different cities all over the region. He drew a lot of attention after healing a lame man in Lystra. Unfortunately, his enemies followed him, turned the people against him, stoned him, and left him for dead. Amazingly, he was revived and he went back into the city and continued to make disciples.

Paul knew that making disciples was a beautiful and noble call from God. But he also knew that it would be difficult and challenging. He expected to be opposed and persecuted for it. But all of the problems were worth it if it meant he could bring others to Jesus. In 1 Corinthians 9:19, he writes that he is willing to give up his rights like a slave if only to reach others. Paul knew the value of lost people.

Many times Christians give up quickly when it becomes difficult to make disciples. Maybe people do not listen to us or accept our invitation. Maybe they even become hostile and persecute us for our faith. Whatever the case, we will be able to overcome when we remember how valuable lost people are to God, especially when we remember that we were lost once, but Jesus loved us so much He reached out for us.

REFLECT

1. What challenges are you facing now in discipling other people? What makes it difficult? Are you willing to be inconvenienced in order to bring some people to Jesus?
2. How valuable are the lost for you? Do you have the same heart as Jesus has for the lost?

RESPOND

1. From whom will you get the strength to overcome your hesitations in reaching out to the lost? Who are the friends who can help you overcome these? Take time to pray with someone about your hesitations and believe that you can overcome them by God’s grace.
2. What are some sacrifices you can make to your own personal convenience and comfort that could help bring others to Jesus? Come up with a specific action plan you can do this week.