The gift of salvation

    In Acts 13:1-12, Paul and Barnabas are set apart for the work of the Lord. They are subsequently led by the Holy Spirit to different cities where they preach the Gospel. When they arrive at Paphos, they meet a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus, also known as Elymas. He was an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The latter sends for Paul and Barnabas because he wanted to hear the word of God. However, Elymas tries to discourage him from the faith. However, Paul filled with the Holy Spirit, rebukes him and he becomes blind. When the proconsul, impressed by the teaching about the Lord, sees this, he immediately believes.
    A few things get my attention about this story of salvation. One, a Roman proconsul desires to hear the word of God. This man was extremely wealthy. He was a member of the senatorial class which boasted great wealth and political power in the Roman empire. It would seem he had everything and lacked nothing, yet, he was curious about the word of God. Clearly he had heard about Paul and Barnabas and their teaching and he wanted to know more. Thankfully, his curiosity caused him to receive something far greater and more valuable than all that he had - salvation. 
    This reminds me of the reality that salvation is for everyone, not just the poor, not just for those who are struggling. God sees all of our need. He is not distracted by our outward accomplishments because He knows that our soul is not satisfied by these things. Thank God that He sent Paul and Barnabas by the Holy Spirit to this particular city. He knew that that Roman proconsul needed so much more than what he already had - he needed salvation. 
    I love the reality that God is willing to embrace us all no matter our social standing, education, position or accomplishments. He knows that we all need Him. After all we have all come short of His glory and we need Him to provide us with a treasure far greater than what this world has to offer. 
    Second, the Jewish sorcerer tried to prevent his salvation. The good thing is, God did not allow him to succeed. What comes to my mind is the fact that God sees our heart. He knew that the proconsul wanted to hear about Him and He was not going to allow anyone or anything to prevent that from happening. 
    God sees your heart. He knows your desires. He knows what you need. The enemy may try to prevent you from connecting with God and receiving His best for you, but God knows exactly how to ensure that you get His help when you need it. In spite of the enemy’s best efforts, God is bigger and more powerful than any attempt the enemy may make to stop you from receiving God’s salvation and deliverance. 
    God sees. God knows. God cares. God knows exactly how to get to you, to help you in your time of need. Nothing and no one can stop God’s love from reaching you. God is all-powerful, all-mighty, more than able. Be encouraged.
    If you have not accepted Jesus Christ into your life as your personal Lord and Saviour, I encourage you to do so today. God loves you and when you reach out to Him, He will not ignore you. His desire to connect with you is even greater than your own. He will push past obstacles and challenges to ensure that you receive the salvation He desires for you.

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