SATURDAY June 17, 2023
Men Set Apart to Go!
Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.
Acts 13:1-3 NIV
In Acts 13, we encounter Saul’s first missionary journey with Barnabas. How did this trip come about? Observe what all the believers were doing beforehand. They were worshiping the Lord and fasting. It was during this time of seeking the Lord that the Holy Spirit called and set apart Barnabas and Saul for a specific work. They were to be sent out––to go!
Take a moment to think about the ministry of missions. I believe the Church today is actually losing ground because fewer and fewer people are being sent out to go into the mission field. It seems college students are more focused on getting degrees in business or psychology. Where are the men and women who are called to go on the mission field?
For sure the Church needs to train more missionaries. Those with the call to missions should pray about attending a Bible School. They can take specific classes that will help train and equip them for the mission field.
I have found that some believers called to missions are often worried about financial support. Pastor Chuck always used to say: “Where God guides, God provides.” I can tell you firsthand that this statement is true.
Listen, not everyone is called to be a missionary, but God has called each and every one of us to do something for Him. There is a specific work that He wants you to complete. Pray, fast, and be in God’s Word for direction.
As God's children, we are not to be observers; we're to participate actively in the Lord's work. Spectators sit and watch, but we are called to use our spiritual gifts and serve continually.
~Charles Stanley~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
