How Fear Makes A Church Grow
Acts 9:31 So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.
Story: What makes a church grow? I’ve heard lots of answers – like welcoming people, Bible studies that are relatable and open, fun events for kids, faithfulness to preaching and praying. Acts 9:31, though, doesn’t often come to mind as an answer. But as these new believers in Jesus practice the worship (or fear) of Jesus in all they do and a dependence on the Holy Spirit for strength and comfort, the church grew. Multiplied. Increased in numbers of believers. I’m thinking that this was more about daily habits than once a week Sunday morning rituals.
My Prayer Response: Father, is this where we are today? Practicing the fear of our Lord Jesus and looking to the Holy Spirit for strength and comfort? If not, how do we move in this direction? You want us to be going to all people with the Gospel truth, but we do so as disciples – trained in how to follow Jesus. So increase our fear of Jesus – with obedience and worship – and see You increase the number of those who are saved!
May you walk in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit today!