I was led to read the book of Acts and have been slowly going through it to understand this incredible book that gives instruction and encouragement to believers. One scripture that leaves me with my Arsenal Hall moment of "Things That Make You Go Hmmmm..." is:
God gave Paul the lives of all who sailed with him. He was the covering or (umbrella as some books have interpreted) for the lives of all who sailed with him on the voyage to Rome. This voyage was to preach deliverance for the people. The umbrella symbolizes a covering or a shield. While it may not be literal, I have to think of where I am in life with my family, work and the world.
Could there be someone under my umbrella? I am often praying for so many people at any given time. Could my prayers be an umbrella for them? I think so. God gives us something or someone in this case. He entrusts us with it to care for and be fully responsible for the leading or outcome.
I believe this can also be related to what Jesus meant when He told Peter to "feed my sheep". If we are all sheep and Jesus is the "Good Shepherd"; He will use the Body of Christ (you and me as hands, feet, mouth, ears and eyes) to ensure we are utilizing the gifts of the Spirit to umbrella or cover His sheep first in prayer. I believe our lives are living testimonies also. So, lives can be saved by sharing what we have learned about Jesus with others. We also protect and save many lives through intercessory prayer.
Under my umbrella you will find my family, friends, church, employer and a host of employees, leaders of this nation and of course me. My prayer is that all who are sheltered under my umbrella find rest, peace, safety and a multitude of blessings because of my obedience to praise (and pray) through the storms of life.
Acts 27: 24 God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.
God gave Paul the lives of all who sailed with him. He was the covering or (umbrella as some books have interpreted) for the lives of all who sailed with him on the voyage to Rome. This voyage was to preach deliverance for the people. The umbrella symbolizes a covering or a shield. While it may not be literal, I have to think of where I am in life with my family, work and the world.
Could there be someone under my umbrella? I am often praying for so many people at any given time. Could my prayers be an umbrella for them? I think so. God gives us something or someone in this case. He entrusts us with it to care for and be fully responsible for the leading or outcome.
I believe this can also be related to what Jesus meant when He told Peter to "feed my sheep". If we are all sheep and Jesus is the "Good Shepherd"; He will use the Body of Christ (you and me as hands, feet, mouth, ears and eyes) to ensure we are utilizing the gifts of the Spirit to umbrella or cover His sheep first in prayer. I believe our lives are living testimonies also. So, lives can be saved by sharing what we have learned about Jesus with others. We also protect and save many lives through intercessory prayer.
Under my umbrella you will find my family, friends, church, employer and a host of employees, leaders of this nation and of course me. My prayer is that all who are sheltered under my umbrella find rest, peace, safety and a multitude of blessings because of my obedience to praise (and pray) through the storms of life.
