December 30, 2010 - Acts 16:7

“When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to.” Acts 16:7.
Paul and Silas traveled from Antioch heading northwest toward Troas when they came to the border of Mysia. They tried to enter Bithynia but were prohibited by the Spirit of Jesus. So instead of going in to Bithynia, they continued on to Troas, choosing to wait upon entering Bithynia until God opened the way for them. It did not appear that Paul and Silas struggled with God saying, “No” to them. For Paul and Silas, “No” was not a negative answer; it was an answer of guidance.
In the world that I grew up in, “No” was very much a negative answer. I didn’t like being told “No” to any of my personal requests. I did not respond well when given “No” for an answer. I would throw a tantrum or at least would pout … loudly. As I have gotten older, I’ve noticed that I still don’t like hearing “No”, yet I’ve learned how to mask my response. After all, it is not the proper Christian response to pout or to throw a tantrum…is it? When God says “No,” I need to respond out of an attitude of humility, as Paul and Silas did, remembering that God knows best.
Questions to consider: How do you respond when “No” is given to your request? How do you respond when God says “No?”
Prayer: Father, I have struggled my whole life hearing “No” to my requests. Please help me to respond to that answer with a humble attitude. Amen.

December 22,2010 - Luke 2:7

“She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” Luke 2:7
Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem to register for the Roman census. Even though Mary was so close to delivering her first born child, they had to take the arduous journey. Once there, they had to negotiate through the throng of people who were also there to register. Mary was most likely beginning to feel the oncoming of her delivery as Joseph sought housing for them. All he could find was an animal shelter that would have to serve as their room. In Mary’s delivery, they had to use only those few things available to them from their trip or from around the stable. The Lord of lords was wrapped in some scraps of cloths (that were most likely not the cleanest!) and placed in an animal feeding trough. They used what they had to deliver Jesus.
The lesson that came to me as I read this familiar passage concerned Mary and Joseph using all that was available to them, even though the resources were very limited. Many of us feel as if we don’t have much, if anything, to give the Lord in return for what He has done for us. There have been times in my journey when I have felt like I had very little to give in service to God. And since I was embarrassed, I did nothing. I have come to realize that limited as I am, God, who made me in His image, would have me give of the resources that are available to me and through me.
Questions to consider: Do you think that, because you have limited ability or resources available, you are unable to serve? Do you serve God even though you have limitation in ability and resources? How do you do that service?
Prayer: Father, as Mary and Joseph did, help me to use the limited resources available to me to bring glory to Your name. Thank You for all you have given me and for how You made me. Amen.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EACH OF YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!

December 16, 2010 - Acts 16:5

“So the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers.” Acts 16:5.
The early church emerges strengthened after two crucial events that could have left them splintered. First was the council meeting in Jerusalem where it was decided to include Gentiles in the fellowship of followers of Jesus. Next, there was the clash of two of the early church’s stars, Paul and Barnabas. Either one of these crises could have split the church, yet they stayed as one. Through the crucible of conflict they emerged “strengthened in the faith” and they experienced a period of numerical growth.
Being strengthened and growth does not happen without pain of some kind. My body becomes stronger as I work out, and I need to go through discomfort and pain to achieve new strength. Growth in my life doesn’t naturally happen. I must go through struggles and conflict, whether personal or corporate, in order to grow. I can remember trying to avoid conflict, not knowing at the time that I was actually avoiding growth and strengthening. Once I realized that I need not run from conflict, I matured to a new place. The same happens within our communities. The easy way out is to split up, yet that is not what the church did when Paul and Barnabas went their own way. The easy way out for us is to avoid conflict at all cost, and the cost would be our strengthening and growth.
Questions to consider: How have you been strengthened or grown through conflict? Have you been like me, avoiding conflict, and need to learn how to go through helpful conflict?
Prayer: Father, thank You for teaching me to face conflict and, in so doing, strengthening me and helping me to grow. Amen.

November 25, 2010 - Luke 22:19

“And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.’” Luke 22:19.
Jesus had gathered His disciples for what was to be His last meal with them: the Passover meal. He knew that by this same time the next day, He would be dead and His men scattered. With this in mind, Jesus took the bread and gave thanks for it to His Father. He refers to the bread as His body, which was to be broken for them, as well as for all humanity.
I find it so interesting that Jesus, knowing fully what was going to happen, gave thanks. He broke the bread (and even shared it with Judas!). In my case, I can only hope that I would be thankful if I knew that I was soon to suffer for Jesus’ sake. As I reflect on the Thanksgiving season, it is my hope that, no matter what circumstances life finds you in, you will take some time to reflect on what you are thankful for; what you are grateful for. As I sit here, I think of my wife and children, their spouses and children (our precious grandchildren!), and I am moved to grateful tears of appreciation for God’s gift of them to me. I am also deeply grateful for God’s tender mercy and grace poured out for me through Jesus, His dear Son. I am grateful for having the opportunity to be with my brothers, whom I have not been with at the same time in over 20 years. Finally, I am grateful for the friends who have stood by me and have shown me much about the love of Jesus when I was unlovable.
Questions to consider: What are you grateful for? How can you express your gratefulness? How will you express it?
Prayer: Father, thank You for the relationships in my life. I am humbled by Your loving care for me expressed through those in my life. Thank You! Amen.

Happy Thanksgiving to each of you!

November 4, 2010 - Acts 15:28

“’It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements:’” Acts 15:28.

In his letter to the Gentile believers, James explains the results of the special council meeting in Jerusalem, which dealt with the issue of strict obedience to the Law of Moses by the Gentile believers. In presenting the decision, James uses a less authoritarian expression, saying, “It seemed good…” It communicates openness to the possibility of their being wrong or not hearing adequately or correctly the desires of the Holy Spirit. To me, this phrase is an open-handed appeal expressed in a reconciliatory manner.

I don’t doubt that God speaks within our cultures; but I have trouble hearing clearly. Unfortunately, I have been all too aware of how we Christians come across as having all the answers or having the authoritative word when it comes to the things of God. Humility, at least in the American church, is not our strong suit. I am continually challenged to see other perspectives and to not limit my understanding of issues to one narrow approach. This is difficult within a culture that insists on having all the answer to the problems we face. Perhaps we can begin to discover some answers to these problems in the building of closer relationships. As we get to know one another, we can understand each other’s points of view a bit more.

Questions to consider: Have you observed people giving authoritative answers to problems and felt as though something was wrong with those answers? How does it make you feel when someone gives a narrow, authoritative answer to a problem that you know is more difficult to solve? Have you, at times, been too authoritative with your comments?

Prayer: Father, help me to remember that I may not hear clearly or completely Your words that are spoken to me. Help me to say phrases like “it seemed good” to me, as I seek to serve You humbly. Amen.

October 28, 2010 - Acts 15:19

"'It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God.'" Acts 15:19.
James, the brother of Jesus, was addressing the council gathered at Jerusalem concerning the Gentiles who were coming to know Jesus and putting their faith in Him. The council had heard both sides of the argument concerning whether the Gentiles needed to come under the Law of Moses. They also heard the compelling testimony of Paul's work among the Gentiles. At the conclusion of the meetings, James stated the opinion of the apostles: it should not be made difficult for the Gentiles to turn to God. In other words, they were not to be subjected to the Law of the Jews, and specifically to circumcision.
I find it interesting that we, as people, tend to put "laws" on each other. I know that on occasion I do this. I'll say something like, "If this person really loved Jesus, they should...read their Bible, pray more, spend more time in Christian fellowship (or some other "requirement"). Not that any of these things are bad. In fact, these disciplines are very helpful in our journey with God. I get in trouble when, like the Jewish believers at this early council meeting, I require something other than the central focus - putting my faith in Jesus.
Questions to consider: What "requirements" or "Laws" have you projected onto others around you? When have you done this to others? How do you “not make it difficult” for those around you?
Prayer: Father, please help me to not make it difficult for others to come into a relationship with You. Help me to love and to accept those around me, allowing You to do Your work in their heart. Amen.

October 21, 2010 - Acts 15:12

“The whole assembly became silent as they listened to Barnabas and Paul telling about the miraculous signs and wonders God had done among the Gentiles through them.” Acts 15:12.
Peter had spoken decisively to the council assembled in Jerusalem on behalf of the Gentile followers of Jesus. Attention was then turned to Barnabas and Paul, who told numerous stories of what God had done among the Gentiles on their missionary trip. The whole assembly listened intently as Barnabas and Paul spoke.
There is something to the power of telling stories. Growing up, I remember hearing different stories of adventure and horror, as well as being involved in the story-making of my own life. So often in my Christian journey, I get wrapped up in the head-knowledge of my faith, and I don’t pay attention to the activity – the story – the experience – of my daily walk with the living God. I realize that it is not just about what I know; instead I need to marvel at God’s daily activity in my journey. For example, I have grown to love sitting outside at night, gazing at the stars, and marveling at God’s awesomeness. We have much to enjoy in the stories of God ‘miraculous signs and wonders’ that happen each day.
Questions to consider: What are the stories that are happening in your life? How is God interacting with you in your story? What stories do those around you have to share? Have you taken time to listen?
Prayer: Thank You, Father, for the stories of my life that You have written in me and through me. Please help me to be attentive to Your miraculous story in me and in those around me. Amen.

October 14, 2010 - Acts 15:11

"'No. We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are.'" Acts 15:11.
Peter reminded his Jewish audience at the council meeting in Jerusalem that they should not put the Gentile believers under the ‘yoke’ of the Law of Moses. Peter stated, of his Jewish brothers' ability to live by the Law, that, "neither we nor our fathers have been able to bear" it themselves, so how could they put such a burden on the Gentiles? No one was able to fulfill God's standards by their own efforts, yet, by the grace of Jesus, all would have access to a relationship with the Father.
Even though I know in my head that I live by the grace of God, I sometimes act as if I find my way to God by my own works. I can tell when I do this by how I get upset at God for the bad things that happen to me. I say things like, "I didn't deserve this!" or "How come this happened to me?!?" or some other such thing. What I'm saying when I do this is that I deserve to be in God's presence because, after all, I'm such a nice guy and look at all the good things I've done! If this were true, Peter's comments are a lie and God's grace through Jesus doesn't exist. But, it does! It truly is by grace that I live. Will I humbly receive it and appreciate God's most incredible gift for me?
Questions to consider: Do you say that you live by grace, yet in some ways, live as if you can find your own way to God? What does that look like for you? What does it take for you to walk by God's grace?
Prayer: Father, forgive me for the times I act as though I can make it to You on my own merits, and thank You for accepting me because of the finished work of Jesus dying on the cross. Amen.

October 7, 2010 - Acts 15:8

"'God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us.'" Acts 15:8.
A conflict arose in the early church over the inclusion of Gentiles into the fellowship of the followers of Jesus. Paul and Barnabas were instructed by the leadership at Antioch to go to Jerusalem to argue in favor of Gentile inclusion. At the Jerusalem council, after some debate, Peter stood to speak. Peter reminded the council of how God had used him to bring the message of Jesus to Cornelius and his family, all of whom were God-fearing Gentiles. He recalled how God was the one who filled the Gentiles with His Holy Spirit, as Peter and some other disciples witnessed the event. There was no doubt in Peter's mind what God intended. God was serving notice that all people now had access to a relationship with Jesus.
There have been times when I have conducted myself in similar ways to this group of Jewish followers of Jesus. I excluded some people for various (silly or stupid!) reasons from whatever group in which I was engaged. I realized that there was something within me that wanted to have an "in" group and an "out" group. When I realized this about myself, I was humbled and ashamed of my attitude. I saw that God accepts and includes all who come to Him in faith, so why should I exclude anyone, no matter what their background might be. To this day, I am challenged to be accepting of people and to view everyone on an equal footing with each other.
Questions to consider: Who are those that you have a hard time accepting or including in your conversation and fellowship with Jesus? Is there any group of people that you have a difficulty in accepting? What do you need to do to be more accepting of those around you?
Prayer: Father, give me eyes to see when I am not accepting of those around me and the heart to change in order to love my neighbor, whoever they might be. Amen.

September 30, 2010 - Acts 15:5

“Then some of the believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees stood up and said, ‘The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to obey the Law of Moses.’” Acts 15:5.
There was a group of Christians who held closely onto their belief in the Law of Moses. Yes, they believed in Jesus, yet they also believed that keeping the Law was still of vital importance. Their whole life pointed to the maintaining of the letter of the Law, and it was difficult for them to believe that anyone who came into relationship with Jesus didn’t have to submit to the same requirements of the Law, particularly for males to be circumcised.
When I was in my early years as a follower of Jesus, I connected with the use of contemporary music in times of worship. I could not understand how anyone could connect with God using the old, traditional hymns. It seemed that people didn’t sing these hymns with much enthusiasm, while those us who sang the contemporary music seemed to be alive and vibrant. The type or style of music was a dividing line in my judgment of who really believed in Jesus. It took me a while to become aware of my attitude and to let it go. In like manner, there are many issues that we hold to that add to the central importance of Jesus as Lord and Savior. It is “Jesus and….” Sometimes it is difficult for us to let go of things or issues that we believe are important but are just not as centrally important as we thought. And it is difficult for us not to project these issues on others.
Questions to consider: Are there issues that you hold dearly that you believe others should abide by? What is of central importance to you? How do you project on others those issues that are of central importance to you?
Prayer: Father, please help me to see what is of central importance to You, and give me the humility to recognize my own elevation of those things that are not as important to You. Amen.

September 23, 2010 - Acts 15:2a

"This brought Paul and Barnabas into sharp dispute and debate with them." Acts 15:2a.
Some men from the Jerusalem church came to Antioch when they heard that the good news of Jesus had been received by many Gentiles, who were not circumcised according to the Law of Moses. These men believed that to be a true follower of Jesus, the Jewish rabbi, each male who was not circumcised should submit to this outward sign of obedience. Paul and Barnabas were convinced that it was not necessary for those who had never been circumcised to do so. Because of this disagreement, the debate became very heated and caused a sharp dispute to arise.
While I am not one who enjoys debate or conflict with others, it is comforting for me to see this conflict in the Bible. There is no sugar-coating this problem. There was a “sharp dispute,” which evidently was more than just a little disagreement. It sounds as though there was a heated argument, most likely with raised voices, with some shouting their point of view at their adversary. I am glad that this interaction was included in the Bible. It relates to our world and our problems. And it shows these early followers working through their problems with one another without leaving community.
Questions to consider: How do you respond to a “sharp dispute and debate”? Do you know of anyone who has left your community because of a dispute? What does that do to community? How do you resolve disputes?
Prayer: Father, help me to hear the point of view of others when sharp disputes happen. Help me to be a peacemaker, not for the sake of peace, but for the sake of Your Kingdom. Amen.

September 16, 2010 - Acts 14:27

“On arriving there, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.” Acts 14:27.
Paul and Barnabas arrived at their home church in Antioch and told the many stories of God’s amazing movements in the lives of the people they worked with in the towns and cities visited on their trip. The door of faith in Jesus had been opened to many people and especially to the Gentiles, who were turning to Jesus in large numbers. As they were in the habit of doing, Paul and Barnabas were careful not to take the credit for themselves. They gave total glory to God for the amazing work He did through them.
I must admit that if I were part of Paul’s party, I would have liked receiving some recognition for what took place. Along with God (of course!), I wouldn’t mind people taking notice of me. I am not proud of that fact, but the truth is, it is there. Paul and Barnabas showed no such inclination. They gave total credit to God for all the lives touched and changed for Jesus’ sake and purposes. I am glad that I am aware of my bad attitude, for it aids me in purposely backing away from personal recognition and pointing to God in order to praise and thank Him for His work among us. I am learning to look to God for any recognition that I might need to receive. The important thing is that God “opened the door of faith” to those around Paul and Barnabas, and to us.
Questions to consider: How important is it for you to receive recognition? Who do you need to receive recognition from? How has God worked through you in order for His purposes to advance?
Prayer: Father, help me to be open to be used by You to advance Your kingdom. Help me to look solely, to You, and not others, for any recognition that I might need. Amen.

September 9, 2010 - Acts 14:22

"...strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. 'We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.'" Acts 14:22.
Paul and Barnabas traveled from town to town on their return trip to Antioch, visiting places where they had spent time. In each place, they gathered those who were committed to following Jesus in order to strengthen and encourage them in their walk of faith. It is interesting to note that the phrase used in the recounting of their encouragement was: "We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God."
Paul did not promise them that they would experience the ‘good life’ or ‘prosperity’ in all areas of their lives, if they would do certain things. What he did promise, to all of us, was that in order to enter God's kingdom, we must go through many tough experiences. Growing up as a follower of Jesus in America, it is difficult for me to relate to the experiences of the early believers. A hardship for me might be when my wife and I have to use one car when our second car is getting worked on. Or perhaps it is not being able to buy that 46" flat screen TV and having to continue to use our outdated 27" TV. I can imagine hardships in an intellectual way, but it is very difficult for me to understand experientially what Paul is talking about.
Yet, Paul's audience had begun experiencing what life following Jesus truly meant. They were outcasts from their culture. They were being persecuted in ways similar to the things Paul had experienced. In today's world, believers from many nations can relate to Paul's words because of the severe persecution they have experienced.
Questions to consider: What hardships have you experienced? What do you think Paul means by this statement? How is going through hardships a clear indication that you are entering the kingdom of God?
Prayer: Father, give me eyes to see what Paul intends for me to see in this statement. Give me a heart that is willing to go through hardships for Your kingdom's sake and that is willing to serve You no matter what happens. Amen.

September 2, 2010 - Acts 14:19-20a

“Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead. But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city.” Acts 14:19-20a.
In one moment, the crowd was worshipping Paul and Barnabas as gods come in the flesh, and in the next moment, the crowd was won over to being hostile toward them, so much so that they dragged Paul out of the city and stoned him to death. As Paul was lying motionless, some disciples gathered around him. Suddenly, he got up from the ground and went back into the city to tell of the good news concerning Jesus. Paul knew that his mission was not complete, and he was going to do all that he could to finish his work in that city.
Paul was so focused on his goal, which was to follow Jesus and spread the good news concerning Jesus to others, and he was not going to let anything get in the way. What was a stoning to Paul? A minor inconvenience! He got up, went back into the city, and proclaimed Jesus. Paul had a passion for Jesus that stopped at nothing.
As I ponder this, I wonder where the fire is within me. Do I have a burning passion to serve Jesus with all that I am? I sense that I come up woefully short, yet I desire to serve Jesus with passion. I desire to get rid of the distractions and those things that encumber me. I want to make this more than a desire; I want it to be my way of life – to serve Jesus wholeheartedly, even if I lose my life in the process.
Questions to consider: What are you passionate about? What distractions keep you away from Jesus? What are you willing to lose your life for?
Prayer: Father, give me a passion to serve You and the strength to stand up for You no matter what occurs. Amen.

august 26, 2010 - Acts 14:11

“When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, ‘The gods have come down to us in human form!’” Acts 14:11.
The people of Lystra had never seen a healing like this before (see vs. 8-10), and they responded in the only way they knew how. They thought that their gods had come in human form and that Barnabas was Zeus and Paul was Hermes, Zeus’ chief spokesman. Evidently, Paul and Barnabas were unaware that the people were responding to the healing in this way, and it was only when the priests of Zeus brought sacrifices that Paul and Barnabas realized what was happening. Paul and Barnabas protested by tearing their clothes, which was an expression of great anguish in their culture. It was, evidently, quite a chaotic scene!
Paul and Barnabas knew that they weren’t “gods”, and they were not about to allow others to celebrate them as such, even if it offended the crowd’s beliefs. Paul and Barnabas knew that they must clearly make a stand for the one, true God that they believed in and followed.
There are times when I have made a clear stand for Jesus. Usually it is within circumstances where I am more comfortable. There are, also, times when I have been more cautious in my stand for Jesus. I am much more protective (read: more fearful of rejection!) of myself. Yet, it is always helps to remember that God is always with me and willing to work through me, if I am willing to allow Him to do so.
Questions to consider: How do you make a stand for God? What would you say to someone who to know more about the God you serve? In what ways do you make a stand for God within your circumstances?
Prayer: Father, give me wisdom and courage to make a stand for you in the uncomfortable situations, as well as the comfortable. Help me to always be ready with a word to share about Your love and goodness. Amen.

August 19, 2010 - John 1:12

“Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” John 1:12.
The right to become children of God! We can become God’s children! This is an amazing restoration of who we were created to be – the children of God. I believe that every human was created with this possibility for their life.
Yet, there are many things that keep us from really embracing this for our lives. One thing that has challenged me from embracing being God’s child is my sin. I allowed my sin to separate me from the love of God. I could believe that God forgives all sin, and that He forgives other people’s sin, but I struggled with embracing God’s forgiveness for my sin. How could He, as my sin was so dark and messy? I understand intellectually God’s forgiveness for all my sins but have struggled believing this in my heart. I came to realize that I was allowing my sins to define who I was.
Since then, I realized that I am not defined by my sins. I am defined by who God says I am and not by my own feelings. I am a personally loved child of God. And because of this, I realize that I am not defined by my sins. I am not my sins. I am a child of God.
It is my hope that each of us will take some time to think through what keeps us from embracing – really embracing – the amazing fact that we are God’s children.
Questions to consider: Do you realize that you are God’s child and that He loves you with all of His heart? What separates you from embracing the fact that you are a child of God? What can you do embrace God’s love for you?
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your deep, personal love for me. Help me to break through those things that separate me from Your love. Amen.

August 5, 2010 - Acts 14:9-10

“He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed, and called out, ‘Stand up on your feet!’ At that, the man jumped up and began to walk.” Acts 14:9-10.
Paul was speaking about Jesus to a crowd of people in Lystra when he noticed a crippled man listening intently as he spoke. Paul noticed something different about this man and looked directly at him. Paul saw that there was the seed of faith in this crippled man, and he commanded the man to stand up on his feet. At that, the man, who had not walked in his lifetime, “jumped up and began to walk.”
This miracle is amazing in many ways. One way that I would like to mention in particular, is the fact that this man’s muscles had never been developed to enable him to walk. Plus, this man had never experienced what it was like to walk, yet he immediately started walking around as if he had done so for his whole life. This truly was amazing! All this happened because Paul saw that this man had faith.
As I thought about this, I realized that when I talk to people, I do not look at them with eyes to see the faith within each person. I am convicted, and realize that I need to look for the seed of faith in those I come into contact with. I want to be aware of God’s activity in the lives of those around me, and I want to speak up about what I notice in others.
Questions to consider: How do you look at those around you? Have you ever seen that seed of faith in someone and spoke to them about it? What was that experience like?
Prayer: Father, may I have eyes to see the seed of faith in those around me? Please help me to see Your activity in their lives and to speak encouraging words to them regarding Your plans for their lives. Amen.

July 29, 2010 - Acts 14:8

"In Lystra there sat a man crippled in his feet, who was lame from birth and had never walked." Acts 14:8.
South of Iconium, where Paul and Barnabas had just been, was the city of Lystra. It was on the road that would take them back to their home in Tarsus. In Lystra, they came upon a man who was sitting in public, most likely begging, who had been crippled from birth and had never walked. The scene is set for an amazing healing to happen at Paul's hands.
Imagine with me some of the possible thoughts going through this man's mind just before Paul came into his view. What are some thoughts that come to your mind? If that had been me, I most likely would have had a hard time looking anyone in the eye, because my self image would have been so poor. I would have worried where my next meal would be coming from. I was always the one who was very needy and could never make it on my own. I depended on others and was very upset – even bitter, when others treated me cruelly or ignored me.
This man struggled greatly, but all of that was about to change. We think that the healing would have definitely been worth the change, yet because of all the new "unknowns" that the healing would bring, he might have been more reluctant. When change happens in our lives, it shakes us up and makes things different from what we are used to. This crippled man was about to have a radical change in his life. I wonder how he adjusted to all the change?
Questions to consider: How do you view change in your life? Has there been anything in your life that has crippled you from moving forward? How did you (or can you) break free from what crippled you?
Prayer: Father, thank You for the example of this crippled man whose life changed radically with his healing. Help me to see those things that cripple me, and that are holding me back from deeper life in You, and help me to be free of them. Amen.

July 22, 2010 - Acts 14:6

“There was a plot afoot among the Gentiles and Jews, together with their leaders, to mistreat them and stone them. But they found out about it and fled to the surrounding country. Acts 14:6.
Paul’s and Barnabas’ work among the people of Iconium was going well. Many people responded to the message of Jesus, and yet, many others were opposed to this message. These people were stirred up and desired to “mistreat (Paul and Barnabas) and stone them.” Once they discovered the plot, Paul and Barnabas pulled up their tent stakes and left for safety. There were times when they stayed to face those who were against them, and yet, there were times when they fled.
As I read this, I realized that I did not remember this scene of Paul and Barnabas fleeing for safety. For some reason, I thought that they always stayed to face those who were against them. It is comforting for me to know that Paul and Barnabas stayed at times to confront the opposition, and at times, they knew that they should flee. This encourages me to know that there are times when I need to stand up and face those that come against me and that there are times when I need to flee for my life, as Paul and Barnabas did. The important point for me is to have a sense of what God would desire for me to do in this situation and to respond with obedience. This is easier said than done!
Questions to consider: Have there been times when you sensed God leading you to stay and face, or to flee, a situation? What was the result of this decision? How did you know that God was directing you in this way?
Prayer: Father, please give me the presence of mind to know when I should flee or when I should stay and face different situations. Give me Your peace in the midst of the turmoil of these situations. Amen.

July 15,2010 - Acts 14:3

"So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to do miraculous signs and wonders." Acts 14:3.
Paul and Barnabas found good favor among the people of Iconium and were able to stay among them for a long time. The message preached by Paul and Barnabas was backed up by God's grace made manifest through the display of "miraculous signs and wonders." The focus was not on the signs and wonders but, instead, was on the message concerning Jesus and life in Him. The signs and wonders were used to draw attention to God's words of life and to give authority to the words spoken.
It is easy for us to say that these signs and wonders may have happened in Jesus' time or during the days of the Apostles time of the early church, but they no longer happen in our time-and- space world. Yet, there are so many things that happen during the normal events of each day that seem to be a coincidence, or events that we have a difficult time explaining. Sometimes, it is difficult for us to admit that miracles still happen today and that signs and wonders are still relevant in our ‘modern’ world. I have seen way too many ‘coincidences’ to believe that miraculous things do not happen today. Over and over again, I see God's hand at work and involved in the normal activity of my daily routine.
Questions to consider: Have you seen God's signs and wonders in your life? How have you seen God's miracles active in your daily routines? What would need to happen in your life to help you become more aware of God working in your life?
Prayer: Father, help me to be aware of Your miraculous activity in the daily routine of my life. Give me a sensitivity to see Your movement in and through my life. Amen.

July 8, 2010 - Acts 13:50

"But the Jews incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region." Acts 13:50.
Paul and Barnabas had success with people responding positively to their message, but they also frequently met with opposition. Clearly, there were a number of influential people who did not appreciate this outside disturbance coming in to threaten the status quo, especially since these influential people had control of the status quo. The message that Paul and Barnabas brought was opening the eyes of the local people, and those in authority felt that their control over the people was being threatened. It seems that wherever the good news of Jesus was proclaimed, the existing authority structure was threatened and a backlash of persecution was created.
We have seen through the centuries when the existing authority was threatened, they turned up the heat and kept people under their control. The slavery issue in Britain and the United States is one of many examples. When opposing voices came against the oppressive enslavement of a race of people, those in dominance over the slaves used anything within their powers, including violence, to keep the slaves oppressed. On a personal level, it is important for me to work for justice and freedom whenever and wherever it is within my ability to do so.
Questions to consider: Have there been times when you have seen one group of people dominate and oppress another? Have you ever personally witnessed an individual dominating or oppressing another? What is your response to such occurrences?
Prayer: Father, thank You for sending Jesus to set humanity free – all of humanity. Help me to be an agent of Your freedom and reconciliation in Jesus to a struggling world. Amen.

July 1, 2010 - Acts 13:48

“When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.” Acts 13:48.
Having been rejected by his own people, the Jews, Paul turned to proclaim the good news about Jesus to the Gentiles, who were grateful for Paul’s efforts. At first reading, I thought that it stated that they were “glad and (were) honored by Paul’s proclamation, but I was wrong. It clearly states that the Gentiles “honored the word of the Lord.” There was something in their actions that demonstrated their sense of honor for the word that Paul brought them.
There are times when I sit back, in my smugness, and make judgments on the word that comes forth in a sermon or a message delivered. Instead of submitting myself under God’s word, I act as though I am superior to it by judging and criticizing it. It is vital for me to intentionally ask for God’s help in hearing the Holy Spirit speak to me through whatever vessel He chooses to use. And it is important that I intentionally stop my criticism of the word being proclaimed. This doesn’t mean that I accept any word spoken. It means that I submit myself to the working of the Holy Spirit through the proclamation of His word, and thereby, honor the word of the Lord.
Questions to consider: How do you honor the word of the Lord? Are there tangible ways that you demonstrate your honor of God’s word in your life? What does that look like?
Prayer: Father, I confess my judgmental attitude at the proclamation of Your word. Please help me to intentionally submit myself to Your word, and in doing so, honor You and Your word. Amen.

June 24, 2010 - Acts 13:46

“Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: ‘We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles.’” Acts 13:46.
Paul had been directed by God to bring the message of eternal life in Jesus to his fellow Jews first, and then to take it to the Gentiles. It is interesting that Paul states that these Jewish people did not “consider (themselves) worthy of eternal life.” It is as if these people just discarded Paul’s words as unbelievable or unimportant. Either way, they turned away from God’s words of life in Jesus.
As I ponder these words, I am challenged by them. With all the words that are communicated in our world, it is so easy to not take any of them seriously or not take them to heart. The challenge is to develop the ability to hear those special, life-giving words that are spoken, often very quietly. Often when I, at first, hear truth spoken, I tend to receive it in a negative way, almost rejecting it. When I take some time to think about it, I come to see the truth that was spoken and make adjustments accordingly in my life. But this takes a sensitivity that is sometimes beyond me, and one that I desperately need to continue to develop. I want to “consider (myself) worthy of eternal life” and of the things of God. Don’t you?
Questions to consider: What is your first response to hearing truth? How do you hear God speaking to you?
Prayer: Father, help me to hear truth when it is spoken and to have a sensitive ear to hear Your words of life. Amen.

June 17, 2010 - Acts 13:43

“When the congregation was dismissed, many of the Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who talked with them and urged them to continue in the grace of God.” Acts 13:43.
Many people from the synagogue were touched by Paul’s words and wanted to hear more. After the meeting was over, Paul and Barnabas met with the people telling them more about Jesus and urging them to “continue in the grace of God.” These people heard about Jesus’ suffering and dying, as well as His resurrection. They fully understood the pain and shame of crucifixion and understood that this is what Jesus endured for them. Paul recognized that the grace of God was already coming upon these people because their hearts were open to hear about Jesus and their lives were already being transformed. Their eyes were opening to the movement of God in their lives.
I remember hearing about Jesus when I was younger, but it wasn’t until I was 20 years old that my own heart was warmed by the Spirit of God and I began to see Jesus for who He was and for what He had done for me. It was my first experience of the grace of God in my life. Through the years, I have noticed that, while God is always with me, there are times when it seems that He is more present – more in the moment with me. Sometimes this occurs during times of deep struggle or pain, and His grace helps me to get through.
Questions to consider: How is the grace of God evident or active in your life? When are you most aware of God’s grace in your life? Are you aware of God’s grace in the midst of your suffering?
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your grace. Please help me to continue in Your grace and to live a life of gratitude for Your grace in my life. Amen.

June 10, 2010 - Acts 13:39

“’Through him everyone who believes is justified from everything you could not be justified from by the law of Moses.’” Acts 13:39.
Paul boldly proclaimed to his mostly Jewish crowd, that following the letter of the law of Moses wasn’t going to save them. Instead, it was only through believing in the redemptive work of Jesus that one’s sins could be fully forgiven. Paul was telling the people that it was not by their works – obeying the law of Moses – that they would be saved. In fact, according to Paul, there was nothing that a person could do to be saved except to believe in Jesus and receive true forgiveness from all sins.
While I don’t consciously work on being justified by the law of Moses, there are times when I will try to do the right actions that will prove my worthiness to God. Does this mean that I shouldn’t be concerned about right actions? Not at all. But my right actions need to come out of a heart of gratitude to Jesus for what He has done for me. This is a good gauge for me to see if I am trying to reach God through my good actions or trusting in His complete work.
Questions to consider: Are there times when you still try to prove your worthiness to God? How grateful are you to Jesus for the justifying work He completed on your behalf? Does this influence your actions and how you live your life? In what ways does it do this?
Prayer: Father, help me to always be grateful for Jesus and the work He completed on my behalf. Help me to never take this for granted or to try to prove my own worthiness. Amen.

May 27, 2010 - Acts 13:37-38

“’But the one whom God raised from the dead did not see decay. Therefore, my brothers, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.’” Acts 13:37-38.
The decay of sin and death did not overcome Jesus when he was in the grave. Instead, God raised Jesus up to life once again, overcoming the effects of sin and death and becoming the channel for the forgiveness of all sins. This is the message Paul delivered to the people of Pisidian Antioch. Jesus, the sinless Son of God, made a clear path to God for all people to come to be forgiven of all their sins and to be made clean. And this path was established by Jesus taking death and sin to the grave with Him and being raised to new life, giving Him victory over death and sin, once and for all time. The sting of death was broken and freedom from sin was now possible.
Yet, at times in my life, I sense the polluting and decaying effect of sin. Most of the time it is a slow process; so slow that it is hardly recognizable. It’s like death on the installment plan. Yet it is still there, and, as I grow older, I am more keenly aware of how this pollution and decay have adversely affected me. Even though the war with sin and death has been won through Jesus, I am still in a daily struggle to walk in God’s freedom from sin’s effects. I am so grateful to know that through Jesus I have a path to receive forgiveness for all my sins.
Questions to consider: How has Jesus’ resurrection affected your daily life? How are you aware of God’s forgiveness in your life? What are you doing to walk in God’s freedom? How are you helping others to find that freedom, as well?
Prayer: Father, help me to not take Your forgiveness for granted. Help me to remember the ultimate price that Jesus paid to make this a reality. Amen.

May 20, 2010 - Acts 13:30-31

"'But God raised Him from the dead, and for many days He was seen by those who had traveled with Him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now his witnesses to our people.'" Acts 13:30-31.
In Pisidian Antioch, which is in modern day Turkey, Paul was invited to speak at the local synagogue. He told the story of Jesus, culminating with eyewitness accounts of people who saw Jesus after God raised Him from the grave. To Paul, Jesus' resurrection from the dead was the exclamation point of the proof that Jesus was the Chosen One, the Messiah, the Son of God. In one of his letters, Paul stresses the importance of Jesus' resurrection, saying, "if Christ (Jesus) has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins." (1 Corinthians 15:17) According to Paul, the resurrection of Jesus from the dead is of central importance to our faith.
As I ponder the importance of this central element to Paul's message, I am struck by the power of the message and the hope that is conveyed through it. There is something within me that takes notice and says a resounding, "YES!" to this good news. Sometimes when things are going roughly, if I remember to ponder this, I am encouraged with the hope of the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. It is a comfort and strength to me.
Questions to consider: What does Jesus' resurrection from the dead mean to you? How are you encouraged or strengthened by it? How central or important is it in the story you tell of the life of Jesus?
Prayer: Father, thank You that You did not leave Jesus in the tomb, but instead You raised Him up to new life. Thank You for the hope this gives me as I journey through rough times. Amen.

May 13, 2010 - Acts 13:16

“Standing up, Paul motioned with his hand and said: ‘Men of Israel and you Gentiles who worship God, listen to me!’” Acts 13:16.
As was their habit, Paul and his other traveling companions went to the synagogue to meet with the local Jews and any other God-fearing people. They always made it their habit to go first to the local synagogue upon arriving in a new location. Paul felt that it was important for him to bring the message of Jesus to his people, the Jews, before taking it to the Gentiles, even though he knew his calling was to go to the Gentiles. He was often met with opposition and hostility, yet he continued to honor his commitment to his people.
Paul had the privilege of sharing the message of Jesus with his people, yet, because of the radical nature of his message, it was difficult for most of his listeners to connect with what he had to say. Most of the people in his audience were not particularly open to this radically different message.
There have been times when I have perceived that my listeners were not very open to hearing the message that I believed God would have me share, yet I shared that message anyway. There have been other times when I backed away from sharing the full message for fear of being rejected by my audience. Paul actions in standing up and saying, “Listen to me!” demonstrate for me his ‘sold-out’ heart to the life and message of Jesus.
Questions to consider: How radical is the message of Jesus to you? What kind of reception do you receive when bringing the message of Jesus to those around you?
Prayer: Father, my desire is to do Your will and to seek to please You in all that I do. Give me wisdom in telling the message of Jesus and the boldness to proclaim what You would have me say. Amen.

May 6, 2010 - Esther 4:14b

“’And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?’” Esther 4:14b.
Esther, a beautiful, young Jewish woman, was selected by King Xerxes of Persia to be his next Queen. Meanwhile, Mordecai, Esther’s uncle, who was an honest man, came under the bad graces of King Xerxes' right hand man, Haman. Haman, out of his rage toward Mordecai, managed t0 manipulate Xerxes into signing an edict that called for the annihilation of all the Jews throughout the kingdom. Mordecai sent word to Esther that she would not be immune to the edict, but she could appeal to the king on behalf of all the Jewish people. He told her that, perhaps, she had come to this "royal position for such a time as this." Under the threat of death Esther approached the king to make her appeal. As it turned out, Xerxes was pleased to have her in his presence, and she humbly appealed to him, and was granted her petition. For such a time as that moment, Esther stepped forward, under the threat of death, to appeal for the rights of her people.
This scene, and especially this phrase, so clearly depicts a call to leadership in critical moments, and these moments demand a decisive and active response. We can choose to ignore, over analyze, or even run away, or we can decisively face these moments. It doesn't matter what position in life we hold, whether a "royal position" or not – we must make a decision on how we will respond in those critical times. In my past, I would waffle and be indecisive. The account of Esther, and particularly this phrase, has strengthened me to face tough moments in my life, head on.
Questions to consider: How do you respond to those critical, tough moments in your life? How does Esther's story challenge or encourage you? Are you in a "such-a-time-as-this" moment?
Prayer: Father, thank You for being with me and for guiding me in such times as these. Give me clarity and courage with which to face them. Amen.

April 29, 2010 - Acts 13:13

"From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem." Acts 13:13.
It was at this juncture in their journey that Paul was recognized as the leader, and Barnabas is henceforth referred to as one of "his companions." Barnabas, to his credit, was able to recognize Paul's leadership, allowing him to become the point person, while Barnabas stepped back.
Barnabas seemed to have been comfortable with serving in whatever position he found himself in, while it seemed that John, called John Mark, left the group under questionable circumstances, and returned to Jerusalem. We only know of the problems from a future conflict between Paul and Barnabas concerning John Mark (Acts 15). Barnabas was committed to the current mission, whether he was in the lead or not. He was committed to seeing Jesus lifted up – rather than being concerned with his own recognition. It was all about Jesus, not Barnabas.
This challenges me, as I know that, at times, my ego gets in the way, and I desire to receive recognition. While I want Jesus to get the recognition, I also know that I would like some, too. Yet, it is a good discipline for me to stop, intentionally step to the background, and let Jesus be the focus.
Questions to consider: When was the last time that you remember intentionally stepping back - becoming one of "his companions" – and allowing Jesus to be the center of attention? What was that experience like for you? What do you need to do to continue to allow Jesus to be in the forefront?
Prayer: Father, it's all about You. It's all about lifting Jesus up and having Him be the central focus of my life. Help me to be one of "His companions" in this journey. Amen.

April 22, 2010 - Acts 13:11b

“Immediately mist and darkness came over him, and he groped about, seeking someone to lead him by the hand.” Acts 13:11b.
Blindness came on the sorcerer, Elymus. He had opposed Paul’s message as Paul delivered the good news concerning Jesus to Sergius Paulus, the regional governor. Paul knew that Elymus’ distractions were keeping Sergius Paulus from responding to the message, so he had to deal with the distraction. While this demonstration of God’s power was clear and evident, it was not the only factor that moved this ruler to commit himself to follow Jesus. It was in conjunction with Paul’s teaching that the Holy Spirit had used to penetrate his heart.
If I had witnessed this blindness coming upon someone as it did in this passage, it would have certainly gotten my attention. I do believe that I would have been so distracted by that incident that I would have missed the message. Yet just the opposite was necessary for Sergius Paulus. He needed Elymus to be silenced in order for his heart to be reached. In a sense, this example is only one of many different ways to present the message, and it is vitally important that we have a sense from God which direction He have us to go. There is not a “one-size-fits-all” method or formula, but instead, a need for us to connect and hear from God and to connect with those around us.
Questions to consider: How did God reach you? What “method” did He use to touch your heart? What various ways have you used to share God’s message with those around you? How have you sensed God’s direction in what to share?
Prayer: Father, thank You for touching my heart with Your message. Help me to sense how You desire for me to share the message of Jesus with others. Amen.

April 15, 2010 - Acts 13:10a

“’You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right!’” Acts 13:10a
In Paphos, Cyprus, the ruler of the region desired to hear from Barnabas and Saul, now known as Paul. A sorcerer named Elymas, who influenced this ruler, spoke against Barnabas and Paul while they proclaimed the message of God. Paul confronted Elymas, calling him a “child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right!” Paul, in his boldness, was not going to allow false accusations to get in the way of the message God had for them to deliver, so he spoke sternly to this man, and nothing was going to get in his way.
While Paul’s manner seems abrasive and harsh, he effectively silenced his adversary and, with boldness, delivered God’s message to the people. Was Paul too harsh in his dealings with this sorcerer, or was his method warranted? I would struggle with being so bold, yet I see that there are times when similar boldness would be required. My hope is that I would be more concerned about what God thinks of me rather than worrying about what people think of me. I know some people who are abrasive by nature, and it seems that they don’t particularly care about what God or people think. And I know some others who are more concerned about what people think. I tend towards the latter group. May God give me (and you, if you identify!) boldness in His proper time.
Questions to consider: How would you have handled yourself if you were in a similar situation to Paul’s? If you struggle with boldness, are you aware of why you do? What is the right balance between being too abrasive and being too reserved?
Prayer: Father, it is my desire to speak Your word boldly when I sense Your leading. Give me the courage to speak boldly when necessary. Amen.

April 8, 2010 - Acts 13:6a

“They traveled through the whole island until they came to Paphos.” Acts 13:6a.
After leaving Antioch on their first missionary journey, Barnabas and Paul landed on the island of Cyprus. They made their way from the eastern edge of the island to the city of Paphos, approximately 100 miles away. This travel was not done by car or even horseback, but by foot. And often, the roads traveled were hilly and over rough terrain, making their travels even tougher. Bands of robbers would roam the countryside, making travel dangerous. Yet Barnabas and Paul pressed on in the journey God called them to do, despite these risks and dangers.
Barnabas and Paul left the relative comfort of their lives in Antioch to proclaim the message of Jesus Christ to people who had never heard this message before. It was dangerous, yet adventurous. There may have been a few times when I would have been willing to take that journey, but, sadly, I think that I would hesitate to go now for fear of my safety or, even worse, for fear of my personal comfort. Yet, adventures of all descriptions await me whenever I step out of my comfort zone to follow God’s leading.
Questions to consider: What would it take for you to step out of your comfort zone and to get out on the road for God’s adventure? What have you done in your life to get off your sofa and get out into the world?
Prayer: Father, thank You for calling me to be on the journey with You. Help me to be willing to follow Your leading anywhere, even if it involves risk and taking me out of my personal comfort zone. Amen.

Easter, 2010

“And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. Matt. 27:50-51.
“Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.” John 20:1.
“He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’” Luke 24:6-7.
“’But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.’” Acts 2:24.
“May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever.” Amen. Heb. 13:20-21.

I hope that each of you have an Easter season full of wonder and awe at the incredible price our loving God paid. For, “while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Happy Easter to you!

March 25, 2010 - Acts 13:2

“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’” Acts 13:2.
This is the time when Barnabas and Saul (who was to be called Paul) were called by God to spread the good news about Jesus throughout the Roman world. The assembled followers of Jesus in Antioch, having worshiped and fasted, gathered around these two men to acknowledge that God had set them apart for this new venture.
Very recently, an ordination service was conducted for a very close friend whom God had called and the people had recognized. It was so touching to see family and friends from years past gathered to pray for this friend, and to witness the local community’s support of their new pastor. In the message delivered at the service, the speaker stated that each follower of Jesus is called and set apart for the ministry. Our pastors, teachers, and other ‘professionals’ are all here to equip all the believers and to prepare them for the work of the ministry, and it is our responsibility, as Jesus followers, to intentionally and prayerfully seek to know His calling and then to do it.
Barnabas and Saul set out from Antioch on a long and difficult journey, yet they knew full well what God had called them to do, and they sought to do it.
Questions to consider: Do you know what God has called you to do? If you know, what is it, and are you doing it? If not, are you seeking to know what He wants you to do?
Prayer: Father, thank You for calling each of us to do Your work, for Your kingdom. Give us the heart to understand what You have for us to do, and the courage to do it. Amen.

March 18, 2010 - Acts 12:23

“Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.” Acts 12:23.
This gruesome event served as a marker of the transition that occurred in the life of the community of followers of Jesus. Before Herod’s death, the early church had experienced a harsh persecution, with deaths and imprisonments, at the hands of the Jewish authorities, as well as the Roman rulers. And the small community of believers was scattered throughout “all Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). In this transition, they began a period of relative peace and experienced numerical growth, as they expanded throughout the Roman world. They had remained faithful through the harsh, tough period, and, even though the persecutions were not over, were now entering into a period of refreshment and growth.
Likewise, each of us goes through different periods in our life. And there are usually markers that aid us in remembering the transition points. One such marker for me was the restlessness that I felt around the time I transitioned from owning my own business to going into ministry as a vocation. I struggled for a period of time, questioning my direction and wrestling with God, until finally realizing that the ministry direction was where God desired for me to proceed. Once the decision was made, I moved from experiencing restlessness, worry, and anxiety to peace and joy. In my life, markers have served to help me see God’s faithfulness and care, and, it’s in looking back that I see His hand at work.
Questions to consider: Have there been any markers in your life? What are they, and what purpose do they serve in your life?
Prayer: Father, thank You for the markers in my life and the transitions that You give me in my journey. Help me to be attentive and aware of these movements and help me to embrace them as being from Your hand. Amen.

March 11, 2010 - Acts 12:14

“When she recognized Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, ‘Peter is at the door!’” Acts 12:14.
After Peter was set free from the jail by an angel sent from God, he walked to a home where he knew the followers of Jesus would be meeting. Upon knocking at the door, a servant girl responded. She was so excited to hear Peter’s voice that she ran to tell the others the great news, instead of letting Peter into the house. In her excitement, this young lady left her brain at the door and ran to tell everyone the news. They didn’t believe her, but Peter kept knocking until they answered and were astonished to find Peter standing there.
There have been times when, in my excitement over something, I left my brain at the door. In my reaction to the event, I do not exhibit much, if any, self-control. In most cases, such as with the slave girl in this verse, there is no damage done. But it could have been much worse for Peter, as well as for all of those in the household. And it could be a bad situation for me if I do not exhibit self-control. This fruit of the Spirit (from Galatians, chapter 5) is an important quality to receive, and to develop. Most of us are not necessarily born with self-control. It needs to be continually worked into us by the Holy Spirit. It’s not one of the “glamorous” fruit, such as “love,” “joy,” and “peace,” but it is an essential one for many areas of our lives, and it is a discipline that will make a big difference in our time of need.
Questions to consider: Have you been in a situation when you wish you had more self-control? What are you doing to encourage or develop this fruit of the Spirit in your life?
Prayer: Jesus, thank You for modeling for me a life that exemplified self-control. Give me a heart that is able to receive a deepening of this spiritual fruit in my life. Amen.

March 4, 2010 - Acts 12:9

“Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision.” Acts 12:9.
Peter thought he was having a vision, which is another way of saying that he thought he was dreaming. And who could blame him? After all, he had been shackled and in jail for his faith. It was now night and he was sound asleep when an angel from God appeared in his cell. The angel woke Peter up and led him out of the jail, with no shackles or guards to deal with. Yet, Peter seemed to be in a fog, as if he were dreaming.
Sometimes in my faith walk, it seems as though I am floating along in a dream-like state. It is as though I were gliding through life. Actually, at times it seems as if I were ricocheting through life – yet, I am not fully engaged in the present moment. The word, “intentional,” has much meaning for me lately, and it seems that when I make myself intentionally be in the moment, my faith becomes alive and present; very actively engaged.
Once released from the prison, it was as if Peter awakened from his dream-like state, took stock of the reality of the moment, rejoiced in God’s deliverance, and returned to where he knew the followers of Jesus were gathered. He was back in the moment, fully alive and fully engaged.
Questions to consider: Do you feel as though you are sometimes walking around in a dream-like state, too? If so, how do you shake yourself out of it? How do you live in the present moment? What do you need to do to be fully alive and fully engaged?
Prayer: Father, thank You for showing me the way to know Your active presence with me in the moment, and for making me alive in that moment. Help me to walk in the moment more regularly. Amen.

February 25, 2010 - Acts 12:7

“Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. ‘Quick, get up!’ he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists.” Acts 12:7.
Peter had been arrested and was in jail. He was aware of the death of his fellow leader, James, and was not sure what his own fate would be. Yet, that did not seem to bother him too much because he had been sound asleep when an angel from God appeared inside his jail cell. The angel’s appearance caused a bright light to shine in the darkness, yet Peter still did not awaken. The angel had to wake him up. Peter seemed to be at peace within his circumstances and certainly wasn’t losing any sleep over his arrest.
Imagine what it must have been like to be arrested and jailed under those conditions! Jails in this period were horrible places, and the conditions of his arrest were life-threatening. I am not sure how I would have held up in his situation, yet Peter maintained his peace. Peter bore within his heart the scars of his rejection of Jesus, and now, under the power of the Holy Spirit, he was willing to lay his life on the line for his Lord. And God gave him a peace that is beyond human understanding. This is a peace that I, also, desire to walk in.
Questions to consider: What usually disturbs your peace? Have you experienced a peace that is beyond our human understanding, especially within difficult circumstances? What was that like for you?
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your peace that You freely give to me in all of my circumstances. Help me to recognize Your presence, and the peace that Your presence brings, especially within difficult circumstances. Amen.

February 18, 2010 - Acts 12:5

“So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.” Acts 12:5.
James, the brother of John, had been killed by King Herod. Peter, along with some others, had been arrested and thrown into the darkness of a jail cell. As he was there, all the early followers of Jesus gathered to pray to God on Peter’s behalf.
Not too long before this, Peter and the others had received some final instructions from Jesus just before He left them to return to His Father’s side in glory. Jesus’ final words were, “and I will be with you always, even to the ends of the earth.” Interestingly enough, Jesus did not promise them safety; He promised that He would be with them in whatever circumstances they might find themselves. Even in the depths and darkness of the jail, Peter knew Jesus’ presence was with him.
I can think of many times when I have prayed for safety for travelling or in other situations, but I can rarely remember times when I have intentionally asked for or have thanked God for His presence with me in my journey of life. As I read this verse, I was suddenly struck by how privileged I am to have the continual presence of the living God, both in me, and working through me. Peter, while definitely not in a safe place, knew that the comforting presence of God was with him.
Questions to consider: Have you recognized that God will always be with you, even in the most difficult or dangerous of situations? In what ways have you seen His presence in your life – no matter the circumstances – and especially in the hard times?
Prayer: Father, I know that You never promised that I would be safe, even though my whole life experience has been safe. Instead, You promised that You would always be with me. Thank You, Father, for Your presence, no matter what my circumstances are. Amen.

February 11, 2010 - Acts 12:1-2

“It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword.” Acts 12:1-2.

The persecution of the early followers of Jesus intensified, and James, son of Zebedee, brother of John, and one of the first disciples, was martyred. Several other followers, including Peter, were arrested, and no one knew what their fate might be.

These words hit me pretty hard. I realized the life-or-death seriousness of the journey facing these followers of Jesus. Or possibly it was just that I was becoming more sensitized to their situation! I began to think about what this group of people had to endure. What do you suppose this would look like today? How would you react in similar circumstances? It was be sobering for me, causing me to think deeply about my convictions.

I am not so sure how I would respond to persecution. My hope is that I would stand firm in my conviction that Jesus is my Master, my Lord, and my Savior. But how would I respond if my government was trying to “cleanse the land” of us? We say that this could never happen...but what if it did? Consider what happened to the Jews in Europe under Nazi savagery.

Questions to consider: What would be your conviction if persecution started happening in your country? How serious are you about following Jesus? How would you follow Jesus, obeying His most important commands to love, in the face of persecution?

Prayer: Father, thank You for giving me this wakeup call and for helping me to think about the seriousness of what Your early followers had to face. Give me a heart that is willing to follow You no matter what the circumstances. Amen.

February 4, 2010 - Acts 11:24

“He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.” Acts 11:24.
Barnabas, a follower of Jesus who had the nickname, “encourager,” was sent to Antioch in order to check out the stories that Gentiles were becoming followers of Jesus. The leadership in Jerusalem must have recognized Barnabas’ character and his gifting, and they entrusted him with the responsibility of assessing this new move of the Holy Spirit in Antioch. Interestingly enough, after his arrival, it is stated that a “great number” became followers of Jesus evidently because of his work among them. In early church history, it is interesting to note that this same city of Antioch was, in a short amount of time, to become a transitional center of the Christian faith, which was moving from Jerusalem toward Rome.
Barnabas’ work there was very important, yet on his initial entry into the city, he most likely was not aware of how valuable his presence would be to the early Christian movement there. At this point, he was said to be a “good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith.” To me, that sounds like what a normal disciple would be. It is amazing what God can do with a person of good character, who makes himself available to be used by the Holy Spirit.
Questions to consider: How available are you to the Holy Spirit? Has your character been developed to a place where you could be used by God in any way that He desires? How does your character get worked on? In what areas are you strong? In what area is your character not so strong? What can be done about that?
Prayer: Father, I am available to be used by You, if You so desire. Please continue to work the character in me that You desire, and please do it in Your way for Your purposes. Amen.

January 28, 2010 - Acts 11:20

“Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus.” Acts 11:20.
Out of Stephen’s stoning arose a persecution, which caused many followers of Jesus to be scattered throughout Judea, Samaria, and beyond. God used this persecution to spread the story of Jesus, as these new followers travelled about. One particular group of men from the island of Cyprus and the North African city of Cyrene travelled to Antioch, in modern-day Syria, and began speaking about Jesus to the inhabitants. And the Lord’s hand was with them.
Here is another situation where God used the negative experiences for a positive result. It seems that these men from Cyprus and Cyrene could no longer stay in Jerusalem because of the threats against all of the followers of Jesus, so they took the story on the road. They could have complained about their situation, but instead, they went on their own missionary trip, excitedly sharing the good news about Jesus.
Often when negative experiences occur in my life, my initial reaction is to feel sorry for myself and have a pity party. More recently, I have been attempting to see these situations as opportunities instead of obstacles. Instead of being glum, I am trying to choose to be more excited about life and to share the good news of Jesus, no matter what the circumstances are.
Questions to consider: How do negative circumstances affect you? Have there been times when you were able to share the love of Jesus in the midst of rough circumstances? Do you remember any missed opportunities?
Prayer: Father, thank You for making good things happen in the midst of some of my bad experiences. Help me to see that interruptions in my life are opportunities instead of obstacles. Amen.

January 21, 2010 - Acts 11:18

“When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, ‘So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life.’” Acts 11:18.
Peter responded to the objections of his brothers back in Jerusalem concerning his involvement with the Gentile household of Cornelius. Peter’s closing question ended any further concerns, and, finally, the whole assembly gave praise to God. They recognized that God had done the work and that Peter had just followed along, giving an eyewitness account to what had happened. The assembly realized that “repentance unto life” in Jesus was no longer restricted to the Jews, but was now opened up to the Gentile world.
One thing that I have noticed among many people is that we tend to bring our own list of restrictions to whatever we are involved with. I am surprised at who gets involved with an activity because it is often the people that I was not expecting to, who get involved, and the ones that I thought would be involved, do not. It doesn’t happen all the time but often enough for me to notice. Fortunately, I usually do not restrict anyone’s involvement. Yet in my mind, I have already restricted them, by purposely not extending an invitation. Fortunately, in many instances, God has touched their hearts. And when God is moving, who am I to hold my petty restrictions against them?
Questions to consider: Have you restricted anyone from being involved with something you were involved with? What were the circumstances around that, and how did that work for you? Have you ever been restricted from participating in something? How did that make you feel?
Prayer: Father, Thank You that You have not restricted me, or anyone, from coming close to You or from getting involved with anything You are doing. Thank You that You are a God who accepts and does not reject. Amen.

January 14, 2010 - Acts 11:17

“’So if God gave them the same gift as he gave us, who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could oppose God?’” Acts 11:17.
Peter reaches the end of his explanation for his actions at Cornelius’ house, finishing with this potent question. God had poured out the Holy Spirit on this Gentile household in a similar manner as He had done with Peter and the other Jewish followers. To their credit, they recognized that it was God’s activity and decided, as a result, that they could not oppose it. Interestingly enough, it was another group of leaders, the Pharisees and Sadducees, who rejected God’s activity in Jesus Christ. God was doing something new, and these early followers of Jesus recognized Him and followed after Him.
Sometimes, we can oppose God by not recognizing something new that He is doing around us or in us. (The truth of the matter is that, most likely, it is not necessarily new; it is just new to us.) There have been times that I get so used to doing things in a certain way, even if it takes me much longer or at greater inconvenience. I am a creature of habit. When a new, more efficient way is presented to me, my initial reaction is to resist or oppose it. This carries over into the spiritual realm. Something new is revealed, and yet, I stay stuck in my old patterns and beliefs. Or someone becomes a follower of Jesus that is “surprising.” Yet, who am I “to think that I could oppose God.” God has His agenda, and I need to try to recognize it and follow.
Questions to consider: How do you resist or oppose God? Are you open to the possibility that you could be resisting Him? Is there anyone who God has accepted that you struggle to accept?
Prayer: Father, it is not my heart to resist or oppose You. Yet, I know that there are times that I do. Please help me to recognize these moments, as these early followers in Acts did, and say, as they said, “Who am I to think that I could oppose You?” Amen.

January 7, 2010 - Acts 11:5

“’I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision.’” Acts 11:5.
Peter had returned to Jerusalem after being directly involved with a Gentile household that subsequently became followers of Jesus. Peter’s fellow believers in Jerusalem had not previously had any experience with Gentiles becoming followers of Jesus, and they were not certain that this was permissible, and so confronted Peter. Peter began his explanation by recounting how God had spoken to him in a vision. It is almost as if Peter was saying, “I was in prayer minding my own business when God put me into a trance and gave me this vision. I couldn’t help it.” He was put into a position where he had to justify his actions, and he did so by patiently retelling each detail of his amazing story and by explaining it truthfully.
There are times when, in an attempt to justify my actions, I am tempted to build a story that ends up making me look good. In other words, I am tempted to lie. When I read of Peter’s response to his brothers, I sense that Peter is not withholding any of the facts from the story, nor is he embellishing it. He is telling the story as completely as he experienced it. I am challenged to do the same in my life – to tell a story, particularly of God’s movement and activity, without embellishment or exaggeration. The challenge is to state the facts as they are and to let them stand on their own merit.
Questions to consider: Have you ever been tempted to change a story of God’s activity in your life in order to make you appear better than was really the case? How does it make you feel when you know that someone is embellishing a story for whatever reason?
Prayer: Father, help me to say “Yes” to speaking the truth, no matter how bad it may make me appear. Help me to always speak the truth, seasoned with Your love. Amen.