Displaced

They had left Italy when Claudius Caesar deported all Jews from Rome. Acts 18:2

We have all been moved in recent times by images of displaced people, refugees of politics, persecution and war.  Sometimes I feel overwhelmed by the enormity of it all and the seeming hopelessness of the plight of many as they are pushed from pillar to post. But we can pray knowing that God often has great purpose in allowing people (and his people) to be displaced.

Such was the case of Paul, Aquila and Priscilla where we find them meeting up in Corinth in Acts 18. Aquila and Priscilla were Jews and probably already Christians since Paul went to see them and then set up business in partnership with them while at the same time taking the opportunity to teach in the synagogue every Sabbath.  This was a great partnership for work and spiritual growth.  Paul was an excellent teacher and he took Priscilla and Aquila with him on a missionary journey to Ephesus where he left them.  Then along comes Apollos who was a Jew who had a thorough knowledge of scripture but had no experience of the Holy Spirit baptism, only the baptism of John (Acts 18:25).  Priscilla and Aquila were in the right place to instruct him further.

Don't be afraid if God seems to be moving you on.  Sometimes employment dries up or diminishes.  This happened to us in 1994 and we found ourselves in Hong Kong.....for 13+ years.  It was a wonderful season in our lives and we never would have gone if things hadn't taken a downturn for us.  

Take heart, be encouraged, He has a plan, so allow yourself to be fitted into his plan.  Remember Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you.  Plans to give you a hope and a future."  We need to be brave and trust God's faithfulness and let it be proven in our own life.

Having said that, do remember those who have been displaced from their homes and lands at this time.  Pray that God will reveal Himself to them through people they meet in their plight.  Pray for those working to relieve suffering and hardship.  Pray for God's light to shine and His truth to be revealed to hearts that are wondering "Why God?"  Sometimes suffering and shaking, insecurity and great need are what it takes to make us open to receive God's Truth.

Prayer:  Lord Jesus please reveal yourself as the Lord and giver of life to those who find themselves in difficult situations at this time.  Help their hurting hearts to find peace as they hear of your great love for them and their families.  Bless those who work among them and for those who don't know you, please reveal your truth to them too.  Amen