HelpFinder Bible - Flipbook - Page 359
page A357
• L U K E 8 :5 -1 5 | “A farmer went out to plant his seed . . .” (See note on page 929.)
• 1 T H E S S A L O NI A NS 1 :5 | For when we brought you the Good News, it was not only with
words but also with power, for the Holy Spirit gave you full assurance that what we said
was true. And you know of our concern for you from the way we lived when we were with
you. (See note on page 1083.)
Sometimes our role is simply to plant the seed and trust God to bring the harvest.
• A C T S 1 7 :3 2 -3 4 | When they heard Paul speak about the resurrection of the dead, some
laughed in contempt, but others said, “We want to hear more about this later.” That ended
Paul’s discussion with them, but some joined him and became believers.
The majority may seem disinterested or hostile, but you never know when someone will
believe—so you should never give up.
• E Z E K I E L 2 :5 , 7 -8 | “And whether they listen or refuse to listen—for remember, they are
rebels—at least they will know they have had a prophet among them. . . . You must give
them my messages whether they listen or not. But they won’t listen, for they are completely
rebellious! Son of man, listen to what I say to you. Do not join them in their rebellion. Open
your mouth, and eat what I give you.”
• 2 T I MOT H Y 4 :2 | Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not.
• L U K E 9 :5 | “And if a town refuses to welcome you, shake its dust from your feet as you
leave to show that you have abandoned those people to their fate.”
W
Even if attitudes or circumstances are not favorable, courageously speak out anyway. In
this way, you honor God.
How do I deal with feelings of embarrassment when friends make fun of
my faith?
• MA R K 8 :3 8 | “If anyone is ashamed of me and my message in these adulterous and sinful
days, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns.”
• 2 T I MOT H Y 1 :8 | So never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord.
You never have to be ashamed or embarrassed about Jesus because what he says is true
and what he offers is real.
• R O MA NS 1 :1 6 | For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. (See note on page 1013.)
Paul was not ashamed of the gospel that alone holds the power to save souls for all eternity.
PROMISES FROM GOD
• DA NI E L 1 2 :3 | “Those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever.”
• L U K E 1 2 :8 | “I tell you the truth, everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth,
the Son of Man will also acknowledge in the presence of God’s angels.”
Word of God See Bible
Work See also Abilities; Accountability; Conflict; Equality; Leadership; Planning;
Purpose; Quitting; Rest; Stress; Success; Unity & Teamwork
Work is God’s plan for our lives, and our work matters to God. Those who work diligently
experience many benefits in their own lives and are able to pass them on to others. At
its best, work honors God and brings meaning and joy to life. We should emulate the
character traits we see in God’s work, such as excellence, concern for the well-being of
others, purpose, beauty, and service. When we have the perspective that we are actually working for God, the focus moves off the task and onto our motives—to help people
know God. The excitement and interest that come from having this perspective are not
primarily from the work but from the One who we work for. God promises two basic
HelpFinder
If after you have shared God’s Good News and people have refused to accept it, keep
going—there are many others to tell.