For the last couple of months, I began the process of listening to the audio bible and allowed the words to be embedded over my spirit and into my heart. This morning as I was listening to 1 Corinthians chapters 11-12 (MSG), I really loved the understanding of this version of the bible as it really emphasised the importance of the gifts each person has and when we combined together it creates something incredible which is called the body of Christ. I believe this is going to be such an important message for this next step of the season we are moving towards.
The Lord showed me in the spirit a vision of people walking together with arms linked with one heart, one mind, towards a common goal. I believe what the Lord was saying is this will be the only way we will come out of this season of isolation/ lockdown successfully. Acts 4:32 (Passion Translation NT)
32 All the believers were one in mind and heart. Selfishness was not a part of their community, for they shared everything they had with one another.
Are we ready and willing to do what these believers did? Now before you go sell your house and give the money away, let me give you some Godly advice. We need to start with a willing heart that wants to give for the betterment of others. Then allow the Lord through His teachings and leadings to discover how to implement this in your life.
One night, about 8 years ago the Lord asked us to transfer some money into another person’s account. It was not a fortune, but all I had and so we did as the Lord asked. A few days later we found out it was the exact amount needed to save the family home.
You see, it wasn’t about the monetary amount, but listening and the action.
We never could imagined at the time how much this simple action would bring about, But we heard His voice and acted on it.
So this is your challenge today.
1. Ask the Lord to show you if your heart is in line with His on longing to give to help others.
2. Maybe read through 1 Corinthians 12 message version and ask the Lord to really show you His view of the body of Christ.
Father, I ask that you will give us the heart like yours to love and give, in whatever way you require us to. That together we may walk forward arm in arm with You into the next season together and see true success. Amen
Craig and Winnie Patten
Itinerate Pastors/ Aposotlic Leaders
Encounter Ministries