How God Is At Work Even When You Think He Isn’t

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Part 22 – How God Is At Work Even When You Think He Isn’t

Acts 28

1) God always provides for our needs, and sometimes in !

2 The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold. Acts 28:2

3 Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand. 4 When the islanders saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to each other, “This man must be a murderer; for though he escaped from the sea, the goddess Justice has not allowed him to live.” Acts 28:3-4

2) God can enable us to shake off the of life’s pain for .

5 But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects. 6 The people expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead; but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god. Acts 28:5-6

20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. Genesis 50:20

7 There was an estate nearby that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and showed us generous hospitality for three days. 8 His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. 9 When this had happened, the rest of the sick on the island came and were cured. Acts 28:7-9

16 When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him. Acts 28:16

17 Three days later he called together the local Jewish leaders. Acts 28:17

3) God will use life’s to craft powerful in us.

When they had assembled, Paul said to them: “My brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or against the customs of our ancestors, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans. 18 They examined me and wanted to release me, because I was not guilty of any crime deserving death. 19 The Jews objected, so I was compelled to make an appeal to Caesar. I certainly did not intend to bring any charge against my own people. 20 For this reason I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain.” Acts 28:17b-20

22 But we want to hear what your views are, for we know that people everywhere are talking against this sect.” Acts 28:22

4) God can use us to share Christ, even when aren’t !

23 …He witnessed to them from morning till evening, explaining about the kingdom of God, and from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets he tried to persuade them about Jesus. 24 Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. Acts 28:23b-24

30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance! Acts 28:30-31.

How is God at work, even when you think He isn’t?

1) God always provides for our needs, and sometimes in “unusual” ways!

2) God can enable us to shake off the ill effects of life’s pain for His gain.

3) God will use life’s tests to craft powerful testimonies in us.

4) God can use us to share Christ, even when circumstances aren’t ideal!