1 The same thing happened in Iconium. Paul and Barnabas went to the Jewish synagogue and preached with such power that a great number of both Jews and Greeks became believers. 2 Some of the Jews, however, spurned God’s message and poisoned the minds of the Gentiles against Paul and Barnabas. 3 But the apostles stayed there a long time, preaching boldly about the grace of the Lord. And the Lord proved their message was true by giving them power to do miraculous signs and wonders. 4 But the people of the town were divided in their opinion about them. Some sided with the Jews, and some with the apostles. 5 Then a mob of Gentiles and Jews, along with their leaders, decided to attack and stone them.
Acts 14:1-5 NLT
APPLICATION
Paul went to Antioch. He was rejected. So, he went to Iconium. And the same exact thing happen! He got rejected again! Paul is the common factor. Is it Paul? Is Paul the problem? Do you keep finding yourself in the same situation? If you are the common factor, then are you the problem?
Sometimes, it is you. Your behavior and attitude in certain situations may be the reason. But, sometimes it isn't you.
We have to use discernment and allow ourselves to be corrected by the Holy Spirit. It may have nothing to do with us and everything to do with the glory of God. Paul had to be rejected, so he could go to the next town and encourage new believers. Maybe you had to be rejected, so you could go to the next opportunity and shine your light for God’s glory.
PRAYER
Dear God, thank you for your Word and wisdom. For all of us that are dealing with a Spirit of rejection or inferiority, help us to remember your superiority. We give you this day and we surrender it to you. May your Will be done. In Jesus’ name. Amen.