Beyond Status-Quo

Beyond Status-Quo

Acts 9:31 (NASB®)

The church throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria enjoyed peace, as it was being built up; and as it continued in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it kept increasing.

The book of Acts tells the story of the early Church. The letters that fill our New Testament—Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians—are written to the Christian communities that emerge in that book. I’m intrigued by the way Luke chose to describe Israel. Judea is the southern part, the region that includes Jerusalem and the surrounding area. Galilee is the northern part, the region that surrounds the famous lake. Samaria is the territory between Judea in the south and Galilee in the north. In effect, Luke was saying the Church throughout all Israel enjoyed peace, was being built up, feared the Lord, knew the comfort of the Holy Spirit, and continued to increase. These were congregations that were not content to maintain the status quo. They were not just holding on. Even in the midst of difficult times, they were flourishing and growing. I want my church to be described that way, and I want that for your church, too.

THINK ABOUT IT

It is easy to become too comfortable in routines and situations instead of stepping beyond your comfort zone to advocate for Christ in every opportunity God gives. But doing so is a catalyst for growth and new life—in you and in the Church.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, help me resist the complacency of convenience and ease, but cooperate with the idea of learning, growing, and gaining spiritual momentum. Jesus, You are building up Your Church. May I actively support all You are doing. In Your name, amen.