Goodbook messages arrive every Tuesday and Friday with a
Scripture reading and ideas for how to apply the reading in our lives. We are
reading through the book of Acts. For additional Scripture reading, you can
follow the Advanced Track.
Reading: Acts 20:3a
3 where he stayed 3 months...
Application:
Paul stayed in Corinth, the capital of Achaia, for three months. These would be winter months when ships did not sail regularly. Paul did most of his missionary travels via ship.
In a sense, Paul's missionary work was on hold ... or was it. It is thought that this is when Paul wrote the book of Romans. Paul greatly desired to go to Rome. At this time he could not go to Rome because he felt he must personally deliver the collection taken among the Gentile churches for the poverty-stricken Christians of Jerusalem. So Paul took advantage of this down time, this period of waiting, this moment when life was on hold. He spent time writing to the church in Rome.
If you have ever read Romans, you know it is quite a literary work. He outlines the message of the Gospel, explains the relationship between the Jews and Gentiles in God's plan of redemption, and prepares the people of Rome for his visit. Romans is the largest and the first letter of Paul's recorded in the New Testament.
This made me think about how I use my down-time, my periods of waiting, my moments when life is on hold. We all have those. Here in the Midwest recently, we have had several moments like this due to snow and cold. Schools and roads and offices were closed. Perhaps not so different from Paul's winter scenario. How do we use these moments? Do we let the seconds tick by, or do we take advantage of a moment to do something of value for others and for God's kingdom?
When you have these moments, think about how you can take advantage of them. Can you write a letter or a book? Can you make a call or connect with someone? Can you find small ways to serve or help others? Can you make plans for ways you will forward God's mission on earth? The possibilities are endless. I think Paul would encourage us to make the most of every moment.
How do you make the most of these moments?
Share your comments and application ideas...
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