“So Paul and Barnabas spend considerable time here, speaking boldy for the Lord, who confirmed the message of His grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders.” (Acts 14:2 NIV)
Paul and Barnabas were still on their first missionary journey when they encountered significant division in Iconium. Their preaching had improved, their messages were highly effective. Jews and Greeks alike were coming to know Christ. But unfortunately, their opposition grew accordingly. Some Jews crossed party lines and aligned themselves with the Greeks, “and poisoned their minds against the brothers.” (Acts 14:2 NIV) As a result of both the powerful preaching and intentional poisoning, the city was divided.
What was Paul and Barnabas’ response in the face of division? They spent considerable time there. They preached boldly. Signs and wonders followed.
“Considerable time” caught my attention today. Paul and Barnabas responded to the increasing political pressure by turning up their commitment to the Kingdom. I wonder if there isn’t a lesson here for modern Christ followers?
I’ve spend the last several weeks seeking the Lord for a word for 2021. After much prayer and consideration, I’ve arrived at ‘extravagant’. At first glance it may seem trite or selfish, but let me expound. When the world is quaking with division and dissent; my response is not unlike Paul and Barnabas. I am turning my attention and allegiance to Jesus. I’m intentionally increasing up my time with Him and strengthening my confidence in His message.
It is my prayer that this extravagance will infiltrate my walk and talk, but like all good things, it begins with Jesus. I’ve been collecting samples in scripture: building a case for extravagance as a way of life in 2021.
“She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what He said.” (Luke 10:39 NIV)
I will spend myself in extravagant time at the feet of Jesus, choosing fellowship with Him over more menial things. This means morning and evening visits, and every opportunity in between.
“I will not sacrifice to the Lord my burn offerings that cost me nothing.”
(2 Samuel 24:24 NIV)
I will worship extravagantly; offering praise even when I’m sad, sick, tired or unmotivated.
“Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” (Matthew 2:11 NIV)
I will give extravagantly; often and of my very best.
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and a sacrifice to God.” (Ephesians 5:2 NIV)
I will love extravagantly, just as God loves me.
“Give thanks in all circumstances for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV)
I will give thanks extravagantly, in every and all situations.
As God’s co-workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain.”
(2 Corinthians 6:1 NIV)
“Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.”
(Luke 11:4 NIV)
In 2021 I am choosing extravagance as a way of life with Jesus.
“Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:42 NIV)
Lord, as the external pressure increases, so may our internal intentions. We turn to You in the face of crisis. Shore us up in Your presence. Remind us that our real life is found in You, everything else is just a distraction. May we spend considerable time on Kingdom things and see signs and wonders as a byproduct of our relationship with You. Let others come into Your presence through our faithfulness. Amen.
This is an old song, but one that still fills my heart often. <3