Believing It!

A number of years ago I heard of a child's explanation to his mother following Bible class one Sunday morning. He described how when the Israelites left Egypt with the Egyptians in pursuit that they came to the Red Sea which presented quite an obstacle. As Israel's army worked quickly to build a bridge across the Red Sea, Israel's air force flew overhead to protect them. Once the bridge was completed and Israel had safely crossed to the other side, they noticed the Egyptians beginning to cross the bridge toward them. As the Egyptians neared the center of the bridge, Israel's forces blew it up, thus escaping from the pursuit of the Egyptians.

His mother responded that that was quite a story, but asked if that was really the way it happened. Her child responded, "Well, not exactly. But if I told you the way it really happened you wouldn't believe it!"

Some things are difficult to believe. Especially hard to believe are things we can't fully understand or explain. However, what makes things the most difficult for some to believe is their unwillingness to even attempt.

In Acts we read of Paul speaking at the synagogue in Pisidian Antioch. Following his speaking to them on this occasion they invited him back to speak again. However, when the Jewish leaders saw all the people turning their interest to Paul's teaching about Christ, they began to stir up trouble for Paul and his companions ( Acts 13:44-45)

The thing I want you to consider relating to this account is the warning Paul gave during his first sharing with these people. We read. . .

"(38) Let it be known to you therefore, brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, (39) and by him EVERYONE WHO BELIEVES IS FREED from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses. (40) Beware, therefore, lest what is said in the Prophets should come about: (41) 'Look, you scoffers, be astounded and perish; for I am doing a work in your days, a work that YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE, EVEN IF ONE TELLS IT TO YOU.'" ( Acts 13:38-41 ESV)

What wonderful things God's Word reveals to us. What displays of power are recorded in its pages. What marvelous events that defy nature because they are super-natural. DO WE BELIEVE? Some people don't! Some people won't! Still, let's continue sharing the wondrous message anyway. Perhaps they will finally come around. Maybe their heart will eventually soften and they will finally believe. Let's just keep living our faith and sowing the seed. We never know who we might be able to influence as God works through us.

Have a great day SHARING YOUR BELIEF IN WORD AND DEED!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent for 08/14/1998 (Edited some with passage changed to ESV)]

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