SUNDAY, JANUARY 19
Scripture: Acts 20:22-24

Acts 17:22-24 says, “And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God..”’” If we count living our lives our own way as a precious thing, it brings us into a conflict. But if we are willing to lay it down as Jesus did, it releases us from internal personal conflict. There is no conflict when we yield in obedience. Paul lived to obey and so should we. If we are willing to lay our lives down, obedience is no longer so difficult. The people who are not willing to lay their lives down, have become takers rather than givers. To be in covenant with people who are not willing to lay their lives down is a crucifixion multiplied because they hinder obedience. If we want a church that embraces Christ’s mission, we can only be in covenant with believers who are willing to lay their lives down.