In the Name of Jesus

I've finally found a church I feel I want to attend regularly and the first actual service I went to was incredible. The associate pastor was speaking from Acts 3 &4 on the Name of Jesus. He first discussed the Old Testament teaching of God's Name and then the New Testament teachings of Jesus' Name. He pulled out three (pastors always have 3 points) lessons: In the name of Jesus Expectation is great, Giving is greater, and Reaction is greater. So often we pray that God will do something great but do we really expect it? When we pray for rain, why don't we carry around an umbrella? Do we not really believe it will happen? Expect that God will do things! Our giving should be greater as well and not just money. Time, listening, service, encouragment, prayer and Truth should all be greater in His Name. And when we expect and give more, reaction is greater.

This sermon couldn't have come at a more perfect time in my life. At the time I was frustrated with a few students and my inability to maintain discipline in the classroom. I was already discouraged which wasn't good. As I listened to this message, I lined it up with my students and realized that if I expect God to work in my students and I give more of my time, prayers, love and encouragement, then the reaction will be greater. If I'm going to pray that God will make changes in student's lives, I better believe it will happen and I better be willing to give more of myself.