We are Christians, and we may not look like much on the outside. In fact, some of the people who have known us all of our lives, find it hard to believe that we have changed at all. After all, we look the same, and sometimes act the same, “Even though we don’t do it as often”, quoting Pastor Washington. But nevertheless, we are the redeemed people of God. And we are His possession. I know. I sometimes find it hard to believe too. I once read somewhere that somebody said that Christian personality is hidden deep inside us. It is unseen like the soup carried in a tureen high over a waiter’s head. No one know what’s inside – unless the waiter is bumped and he trips. Like so, as Christians people don’t know what inside of us until we’ve been bumped. But if Christ is living inside, what spills out is the fruit of the Spirit.
What was inside the persecuted Christians? When they were bumped from the comforts of community, they scattered abroad to spread the Gospel; some to the Jews and other to the Gentiles. What spilled out of the persecuted Christians was a message of salvation and hope in which a great number believed. What was inside the Jerusalem church, when it was bumped? Barnabas, the encourager spilled out to the church at Antioch, full of the Holy ghost. Through his ministry of encouragement, many more believe. What was inside the Church at Antioch? When they were bumped with the news of impending famine and persecution of the church of Judea, they sent monetary and material relief. Each household gave as they were able, in order to meet the needs of the believers. What was inside the early church? When they were bumped, out spilled that of which they were full – The Holy Spirit, faith and good works. What happens when somebody bumps into you? That Spills out? Shiloh, what happens here, when we are bumped?
“As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work where unto I have called them.” – Acts 13:2 KJV
Submitted by Deaconess Irene Gardon