GIVE THEM A SECOND CHANCE

Read: ACTS 15: 36-41

Meditation verse:
“And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).

As Paul and Barnabas prepared to depart for their second missionary journey, a sharp contention arose between them. Barnabas wanted Mark, his cousin to come along but Paul insisted that they had no business taking someone who had deserted them the first time. Chances were, he would abandon them again. Barnabas however refused to give up on him. He took him and left for Cyprus, whilst Paul chose Silas and sailed through Syria. Mark was to become a useful part of Paul’s ministry. “Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry” (2 Timothy 4:11).

Barnabas which translates to ‘son of encouragement’ (Acts 4:36), had a reputation for recognizing potential in others and giving them a second chance. When Paul arrived Jerusalem following his conversion, he tried to join the disciples, but they would have none of it. They were suspicious of the one who had persecuted them. It was Barnabas who took Paul to the disciples, convincing them that he was now a genuine believer in Christ. Interestingly, Paul, who was given a second chance, refused to extend the same hand of fellowship to Mark.

Who have you given up on because of one offense or the other? God will never give up on you. He is the God of second chances. You also should be willing to forgive others and give them a second chance. Forgive that person today and restore that broken relationship. You never know how useful they could become in your life, except of course they pose a danger to your life. God works even through conflicts and disagreements to fulfil His plans and purposes. You do not know the purpose of God concerning that relationship you have given up on. Your ability to forgive is essential for your own healing and restoration. If you want to live a wholesome life, you must be willing to forgive those who hurt you totally and completely.

IN HIS PRESENCE is written by Oke Chinye

Have you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Saviour?

Jesus says in Mathew 11:28; “come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. No matter what you’ve done or where you’ve been, this invitation is for you. Jesus is knocking at the door of your heart; all you need to do is invite Him in, by believing and receiving Him.

Are you ready? Here’s a prayer you can say right now:

Dear Lord, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of grace. I believe that Jesus died to set me free from my sins. Thank You Jesus for dying to save me. Please forgive me for all my sins and come into my heart. Be my Lord and Saviour. Fill me with Your Spirit and enable me to live for You from now onwards, in Jesus’ name, Amen

If you prayed this prayer, please email me at rockteachingministry@gmail.com and let me know about it. I would love to pray with you personally and send you a copy of my eBook; ‘Living the Life’ to encourage you as you begin your journey with Jesus.

IN HIS PRESENCE is written by Oke Chinye.
Have you asked Jesus Christ to come into your heart?

He says in Mathew 11:28, “come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” He longs to give you rest."

Would you like to do so now? Here’s a prayer you can say:
Dear Jesus, I believe that You died to save me from all my sins. Today, I invite you into my heart and I accept you as my Lord and Saviour. Please forgive all my sins and help me to live my life for You.

If you prayed this prayer, send me an email at rockteachingministry@gmail.com

I would love to pray with you personally and send you a copy of my book; ‘Living the Life’ to encourage you as you begin your new life in Christ.