How can we seek God's wisdom like Sergius Paulus did in Acts 13:7? An Example Worth Following “...Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man. This man summoned Barnabas and Saul, desiring to hear the word of God.” – Acts 13:7 Recognize Our Need for God’s Wisdom • Sergius Paulus saw his own limits, even as Rome’s proconsul. • Wisdom begins when we admit, “I don’t have all the answers” (Proverbs 3:7). • James 1:5: “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God…” Position Yourself to Hear the Word • He “summoned” Barnabas and Saul—he made room in his schedule. • Regularly set apart time for Scripture reading and teaching (Psalm 119:105). • Treat Bible intake like a necessary meal, not a hobby (Matthew 4:4). Seek Out Faithful Teachers • Paulus identified men known for truth. • Listen to pastors, mentors, and resources that hold Scripture as final authority (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Proverbs 15:22 reminds that wise counsel multiplies understanding. Weigh Everything by Scripture • Elymas tried to twist the truth (Acts 13:8). False voices still compete today. • Imitate the Bereans: “examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true” (Acts 17:11). • Keep your Bible open whenever you consume teaching—verify, don’t just absorb. Choose Humility Over Pride • Roman governors rarely deferred to traveling preachers, yet Paulus did. • Psalm 25:9: “He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way.” • Humility keeps the heart teachable and the mind clear. Persist Despite Opposition • Spiritual resistance arose instantly (Elymas). Expect counter-voices. • Stand firm in truth; God still silences deception (Acts 13:11-12). • Ephesians 6:17: wield “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Respond in Faith and Obedience • After witnessing God’s power, the proconsul “believed, for he was astonished at the teaching of the Lord” (Acts 13:12). • Wisdom is proven by obedience (Matthew 7:24-25). • Ask, seek, knock—then act on what God shows you (Matthew 7:7-8). Daily Practices That Mirror Sergius Paulus – Start each day asking God for wisdom (James 1:5). – Schedule non-negotiable Bible time. – Join a Bible-honoring church or study group. – Keep a notebook: write insights, cross-references, steps of obedience. – Test every voice—news, friends, media—against God’s Word. – Walk out what you learn; wisdom grows with use (Hebrews 5:14). Just as Sergius Paulus sought and found divine insight, anyone—regardless of status or background—can pursue and receive God’s wisdom today. |
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