MEMORY VERSE

When do you feel content? What makes you feel content? If you have ever struggled with not feeling content, then you should meet Saul.

Saul had everything going for him. He was born in Tarsus, an important city with lots of business, education, and travel possibilities. Saul was also a Roman citizen by birth so he was entitled to many privileges throughout the Roman Empire. Yet, that wasn't enough.

Saul grew up in Jerusalem and was by birth also Jewish. As he grew up, he studied Jewish law under the most important rabbi (or teacher) of his day. Saul knew how to be Jewish better than anyone. Even that wasn't enough. Saul wanted something more-he just didn't know what.

After Jesus died, rose, and returned to heaven, his believers went through the city of Jerusalem telling people about Jesus. One of these believers, Stephen, was arrested and condemned to die. The Bible says Saul was there, holding everyone's coats, as Jewish men threw rocks at Stephen until he died. Finally, Saul thought he found something that would satisfy him-hunting down Christians to kill them.

Saul arrested every Christian he could find in Jerusalem. But that wasn't enough. So he decided to travel to other cities to hunt for more Christians. He was on his way to the city of Damascus when...he met Jesus!

Saul was never the same after meeting Jesus on that dusty road. His name even changes from Saul to Paul. For the rest of his life, Paul was content. Whether he was at home or far away...walking or traveling on a ship...living in a tent or on an island after being shipwrecked...safe and comfortable or beaten and whipped...with believers or people who hated him...in prison or in a living room... with Jesus in his heart Saul was always content.

What about you? Loving Jesus brings contentment...joy...peace...love! If you want to be content, invite Jesus into your heart and your life today. You'll never regret it! Just ask Paul!