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Read Acts 28:1-10
“And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him” (v. 8).
Being in a sanctuary and enjoying radiant beauty as the light streams through stained glass windows is calming. Soothing. Even healing. This is an excellent environment in which to open ourselves up to what God wants to say to us through His messenger. We are spiritually reinvigorated. But for what purpose?
While it is true that we personally need these times of worship and renewal, it is not only for our personal benefit, but it is also necessary to fit us for the work outside the walls of the church. We are called to go out allowing God to touch others through our lives. That is the essence of effective gospel outreach.
How is it with you? Is your pattern to drag into church on Sunday with the hope that your gospel “fix” will get you through another week of trials and tests? What you are really looking for is like getting another coat of “spiritual Teflon®” that will protect from the onslaughts of the world.
Here is a better way to look at this. Yes, come to church for the personal help you need, both from God and through the communion of believers, but go out into the world with the intention of staying focused on your real mission in life — to spread the good news. To comfort those hurting and oppressed. To help others encounter God. (Ken Farmer)

Effective outreach requires a constant focus upon others!

This week’s featured devotional is the Monday, May 19, 2014 entry of Opening the Word. Order your copy!
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