Monday
Acts 22:22-23:35
Think:
23:11 – That night the Lord stood near him and said, “Keep up your courage! For just as you have testified for me in Jerusalem, so you must bear witness also in Rome.”
Even in a difficult situation Jesus stands besides Paul and encourages him. Jesus doesn’t promise to take the problem away; he simply offers his presence.
Where do you need Jesus presence more than usual?
Pray:
That you would be assured of his presence in difficult times; and lift up those you know who are struggling at the moment.
Tuesday
Acts 24:1-25:12
Think:
24:25 – “And as he discussed justice, self-control, and the coming judgment…”
In Paul’s discussion with Felix – someone known for not being just or self-controlled; According to Luke, Paul’s words about the ‘coming judgment’ make Felix nervous.
‘The day of judgment’ or ‘justice’ as I prefer to call it can be a frightening idea. But with Jesus’ help we can be justified – this does not mean we get away without being judged; it means that Jesus helps us to live as we should.
Pray:
Ask Jesus to help us as individuals, and as a church to live as we should.
Wednesday
Acts 25:13-26:32
Think:
Often we make our faith too complicated. In this passage Paul explains quite simply what he teaches people:
‘Repent, turn to God and do deeds consistent with repentance’ (26:2).
To believe in God and act like a believer.
In Jesus instruction to Paul he reminds them that in turning away from their old ways they ‘may receive forgiveness of sins and place among those who are sanctified by faith in me’ (26:18).
As someone who has chosen to follow Christ you have received a place among those who are sanctified by faith in Jesus.
Pray:
Ask Jesus for assurance of forgiveness and help in becoming the ‘whole’ person you were created to be.
Thursday (Ascension Day)
Acts 27:1-44
Think:
Three things about 27:23-25; Paul has great faith – he knows that he belongs to God, he has work to do for God and that God will keep faith with him and do what he has promised.
In the ship wreck Paul and the passengers of the ship have to surrender to the elements – without control and allow God to take control of the situation.
Do you struggle to allow God to take control?
Pray:
Pray for faith to know that you belong to God, God has something for you to do and God will do what God has promised. Ask for help to surrender.
Friday
Acts 28:1-31
Think:
This is the final chapter of Acts! I’ve enjoyed reading through the book; I hope you have too! Acts seems to end with a ‘…’ rather than a full stop. A ‘…’ leaves room for what will happen next.
God speaks – and waits for people to respond. The closing section of Acts quotes Isaiah 6:9-10; God speaks through people, prophets and situations – but people fail to listen, hear and understand.
Pray:
That God would help us to understand and respond to his call to each of us.