Daily Scripture Assignment: Deut 13-15; Gal 1

Page AcklerScripture - And still the Christians in the churches in Judea didn’t know me personally.  All they knew was that people were saying, “The one who used to persecute us is now preaching the very faith he tried to destroy!”  And they praised God because of me.  - Gal 1:22-24 (NLT)

Observation - As a "new convert", Paul didn't have a great reputation to proceed him as he told others about the Jesus.   He didn't have anyone to vouch for his authenticity or to verify his authority.  Without those things however, the amazing changes in his life were able to bear witness to the power of God.  The very fact that HE was preaching the gospel confirmed that there must be power in his message.

Application - No credentials, endorsements, titles, or associations will ever lend more credibility to my message of the good news of Jesus than the example of my own life.  This can be both good and bad.  It's great to know that the story of what God has done, and is doing, in my life verifies for people that my message is legitimate.  However, I must always be on guard so that my life does not bear witness against me.

Prayer - Lord thank you for changing my life.  Thank you for changing my outlook and attitude and thank you for allowing others to see the difference. Please help me to live a life that not only pleases you, but also stands as a clear witness to your power and presence.