Today’s Reading: James 1:26-2:7; Psalm 146

Today’s passage definitely requires that mirror we talked about yesterday. It is time for me to be honest and open with God, allowing His Spirit to speak to me as I read His word. I need to be willing to hear anything He might have to say to me this morning.

MY RELIGION IS WORTHLESS WHEN…

If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. – James 1:26-27

That’s good news for those of us who volunteer or work for a pregnancy help organization. That is what we do! Many of the women we serve have been abandoned by their own father and now the father of their baby. We reach out to help those facing a pregnancy decision or in need of support throughout their pregnancy and parenting journey.

Churches are known for this as well. I know of many churches that have Embrace Grace groups for single moms or GriefShare groups for widows. We visited a church in Nashville that encourages families towards foster care and adoption. These believers are beautifully taking care of orphans and widows because that is what God has moved their hearts to do.

Over the last decade, there have been many deaths in the church where I grew up. A generous couple in the church decided they wanted to do something special for the growing number of widows in their congregation, so they underwrote the cost of a monthly luncheon for the women. They have become a close knit group and enjoy their time together.

Father to the fatherless, defender of widows—
this is God, whose dwelling is holy.
God places the lonely in families;
he sets the prisoners free and gives them joy. – Psalm 68:5-6a

Maybe you are thinking of the ways in which you reach out to orphans and widows in your community. That is good news for us then, right? But wait a second. Before we take too much pride in what God has called us to do or given us opportunity to do, there is more to this scripture.

MY RELIGION IS WORTHLESS WHEN…

James says that our religion is worthless if we cannot keep a tight rein on our tongue. Ouch! We don’t serve a God who is looking for more good works than sinful deeds; our religion is not one where we just need to make sure the good outweighs the bad. We serve a God who is calling us to holiness — to a Spirit-filled life that guides both our actions and our words.

My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?

For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes. If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor” — well, doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives? – James 2:1-4

MY RELIGION IS WORTHLESS WHEN…

Humans have a tendency to treat people differently. Preference, prejudice, favoritism, stereotyping, assumptions, racism — these are all present in our culture today. If someone possesses something we esteem, we are naturally drawn to them. That could be physical beauty, clothing, designer shoes or purses, athleticism, jewelry, talent, celebrity status, intelligence, money, connections, or a dynamic personality. It is all favoritism and it is all sin, and my guess is we are all guilty.

Don’t put your confidence in powerful people;
there is no help for you there.
When they breathe their last, they return to the earth,
and all their plans die with them.
But joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper,
whose hope is in the Lord their God. – Psalm 146:3-5

Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him? But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court? Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear? – James 2:5-7

Over and over again, scripture shows that those who are poor by the world’s standards are more easily drawn towards God. Because they have less of this world’s treasures to hold on to, they tend to trust God with more of their life. That’s a powerful lens through which we can look at our own faith journey. Have God’s blessings prevented us from fully relying on Him? I know that to be true about our country, but is it also true about me?

I don’t want my religion to be worthless. Lord, please fill me with your Spirit today. Give me the strength to listen to your Spirit’s leading and hold back any words that are not pleasing to you. May my mouth be an instrument for you today and not a tool for the devil. Lord, bring the words of James to my mind today when I am faced with an opportunity to let the Spirit guide me. May I trust you with more and hang on to less! Amen.

Today’s Reading: James 1:19-25; Psalm 50

What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith and don’t show it by your actions? – James 2:14a

This powerful question speaks loudly throughout James’ letter to the Jews. It’s tragic to say you believe in God but then live out a life absent of God’s presence, yet how often are we caught in that kind of existence? How often do our actions contradict our words?

HOW OFTEN DO OUR ACTIONS AND WORDS REPRESENT THE SELFISHNESS LIVING INSIDE OF US INSTEAD OF THE SAVIOR LIVING OUT THROUGH US?

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls. – James 1:19-21

God’s plan is to fill us with His words — to speak into us the word of truth. But first we must rid ourselves of the things that drown out His words or that use up available space that is meant to be filled with His gifts. We must allow the Holy Spirit to produce fruit in our lives, such as gentleness, kindness, and self-control.

Does anyone want to live a life
that is long and prosperous?
Then keep your tongue from speaking evil
and your lips from telling lies!
Turn away from evil and do good.
Search for peace, and work to maintain it. – Psalm 34:12-14

I think I need to make room in my life for the good things that God has for me. It’s time for some end of the season cleaning!

• There are some unnecessary attitudes and anger that I need to stop embracing in order to make me feel justified. I need to rid myself of this moral filth so that God can give me peace and the ability to forgive.

• There are some habits in my life that I need to rid myself of — habits that make me feel good about myself when God wants me to go to Him for my self-esteem and joy.

• There are some things I put into my body to give me energy and keep me going, when God wants to be my source of stamina, drive and purpose.

• There are some lies that I tend to believe — lies I need to stop listening to so that I can clearly hear the voice of God speaking the truth into my heart.

• There are some things in my life that waste my time, but time is a gift from God — a good and perfect gift. I need to clear my schedule and stop telling God that I don’t have time for…that I just cannot…that I’m too busy…

WHAT IS GOD ASKING YOU TO GET RID OF SO THAT HE CAN FILL YOU TO OVERFLOWING?

Is there anger that God is asking you to let go of? Is He calling you to be quick to listen and slow to speak? Any filth or bad habits you need to get rid of? Are there lies you are holding onto that are keeping God’s truth from fully transforming you? Any schedule clearing you need to do in order to make room for what God is calling you to do?

So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls. But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like GLANCING at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you LOOK CAREFULLY into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it. – James 1:21-25

The study of God’s word is a wonderful thing. Spending time each day in God’s presence is vital. The question is whether or not we allow God’s words and his teachings to change who we are and how we live. If I faithfully study the Bible and I daily write “My Morning Coffee” but I don’t allow it to change who I am and what I do, then I am simply a student of the Word and not a servant of the Author.

Lord, thank you for the reminder this morning that my study of the scriptures needs to include more than a cup of coffee; it needs to include a mirror. When I look in the mirror, help me to see who you created me to be; show me the life you intended for me. When I walk away from the mirror, help me to remember who I am in Christ. I want to be satisfied with nothing less than fulfilling your purpose for my life. So, Lord, I ask for a fresh infilling of your Spirit so that you receive the glory by both my actions and my words. Amen.

Today’s Reading: James 1:9-18; Psalm 49

James starts out his letter encouraging his readers to have faith and endurance in the midst of troubles, and to see difficult times as an opportunity for faith to grow and endurance to develop. He is still talking about this when he begins to talk about the rich and the poor.

Believers who are poor have something to boast about, for God has honored them. – James 1:9

Is James telling us we should take pride in our humble circumstances? No, he is telling us we should be humble no matter what our circumstances. The only time to boast is when we are boasting about what God is doing in our lives. James is saying that even those in humble circumstances can boast about the wonderful things God is doing in their lives. We do not need the riches of the world; we need the blessings of our Father.

And those who are rich should boast that God has humbled them. They will fade away like a little flower in the field. The hot sun rises and the grass withers; the little flower droops and falls, and its beauty fades away with all of their achievements. – James 1:10-11

James is speaking of those who place their confidence in their riches, or who look to their finances to provide help when trouble comes instead of looking to God. They look to the things of this world that will fade away and wither, instead of trusting in the God who is eternal.

God does not promise riches to those who have faith in Him, but He has blessed many believers with great riches. Whether God chooses to give us access to many material blessings or only a few, He wants us to trust in Him more than anything we can place our hands on. Whatever He has blessed us with, big or little, is His to use for His purposes. He wants access to all that we have so that we can embrace Him with empty hands.

God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. – James 1:12

I find it interesting that this verse follows the section about the rich and the poor. How often does our financial situation tempt us to place our faith in money instead of God? Perhaps we are tempted with the thought that all of our problems will be solved if only God will give us more material blessings. And when He does bless us financially, is He tempting us to get caught up in worldly treasures? James settles that question clearly in the next verse.

And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. – James 1:13-15

Imagine the analogy of a fish being caught on a hook. All is good and then the fish’s attention is drawn to something that looks pleasing — something dangling from a hook. The fish is not thinking about the danger of the hook but of the temporary pleasure of the worm. The fish has the choice to swim away from the temptation or to latch onto it. The latter results in the fish being pulled in a direction it never intended to go.

Temptation comes from our own sinful desires. When we choose to pursue what our flesh desires, we take the chance that the temptation will drag us into sinful actions. As we allow sin a place in our lives, it gives birth to death. But don’t be misled! Don’t be enticed by what this world has to offer, and don’t let temptation drag you into places of sin.

So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession. – James 1:16-18

Our God never changes. He is good and He is holy today, and He will be good and He will be holy tomorrow. We never have to question if He loves us. We are His prized possession and He longs for us to love Him in this same way. In good times and bad, have faith in Him. Whether you have little or much, trust in Him. Don’t let any situation, earthly possession, or temptation draw your attention away from the One who calls you His prized possession.

Father, thank you for loving us with that kind of love! Thank you for the abundance you provide for us every day as we live the life you have given us. May we always be satisfied with your provisions and may we always be thankful for your generosity. Help us to WAIT on you, the God who never changes or casts a shifting shadow, for all we want and all we need. Amen.

Today’s Reading: James 1:1-8; Psalm 31

Around the time of Paul’s first missionary journey, followers of Jesus began writing letters to the believers scattered across the region. James, the brother of Jesus, wrote a short letter packed full of inspiration for us today. It is one of my favorite books of the Bible.

James opens up his letter with a short introduction of himself. Have you ever had to introduce yourself or have you been asked to write your own bio? It is not easy to do. Out of all the different ways James could have described himself, he chose slave or servant (1:1). Not brother, not blood relative, not childhood playmate — James humbly chose the word servant.

My heart resonates with James’ description of himself. I desire to be completely sold-out to God — a servant willing to do whatever God asks of me. I choose to recognize Jesus as my Lord or my Master, not just my Christ or my Savior. I recognize that it is through his blood that I kneel before him forgiven; I acknowledge that the hope and peace I have are precious gifts from God Himself.

What about you? Can you relate to these gifts or do hope and peace seem just out of reach for you? James goes on to give us great advice for those toughest moments in life: when trouble comes your way, when your faith is tested, when you need wisdom, and when you start to doubt.

WHEN TROUBLE COMES YOUR WAY

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. – James 1:2

Wow! James is saying that, when trouble comes my way, I should consider it an opportunity for great joy. When things are going wrong, I should consider it an “opportunity” and not a burden. When problems are unresolved, I should look at the good that can come from it instead of dwelling on the trouble it is creating. I would be wise to soak in these words of wisdom this morning.

WHEN YOUR FAITH IS TESTED

For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So LET IT GROW, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. – James 1:3-4

An opportunity…a chance…needing nothing. When it seems like all is going wrong and my faith is being tested, I can focus on the positive — I can trust that something good can come of this difficulty. I can see my circumstances as an opportunity to build endurance or perseverance. And when endurance is fully developed, when I am growing fully in Christ, I can rest in the knowledge that my life is perfect (all that God intended it to be).

WHEN YOU NEED WISDOM

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. – James 1:5-8

Sometimes I lack wisdom. Sometimes the way I handle a situation causes me to regret my actions before the day is even over — sometimes before the words are even out of my mouth. Apologies are made and I seek God for forgiveness. Because the Lord is generous, He hears my cry for wisdom and He answers it. He forgives me and is willing to give me wisdom, if only I will ask for it.

WHEN YOU START TO DOUBT

The problem is that my lack of wisdom yesterday can cause me to doubt today. Have you been there? I find myself discouraged that I have once again blown it. I begin to wonder if I will ever get it right. It is in those moments that I need to remember where my help comes from (Psalm 121:1-2); I need God’s grace to heal my imperfect submission to a perfect God.

When I am so sick of myself and so frustrated that I am not getting it right (again), I can take all that I am (as pitiful as it may be) to all that He is (holy, righteous and good). He can transform me into the person He needs me to be, giving me the wisdom I need to grow up fully in Him. I can ask my GENEROUS God for wisdom, in absolute confidence that He will give it to me.

Here I am again, Lord, looking back at yesterday, discouraged that I am not as mature as I long to be. I am reminded this morning by your brother, James, that you will give me what I need. Lord, I need wisdom. I ask for you to empty me of all that is me, and fill me with all that is you. Generous God, please give me your wisdom and continue to grow me so that I can be ALL that You intend for me to be. Thank you for never giving up on me. Thank you for continuing to work on me, building patient endurance each time my faith is tested. I choose to LET IT GROW. Amen.

The Lord is a shelter for the oppressed,
a refuge in times of trouble.
Those who know your name trust in you,
for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you.
Sing praises to the Lord who reigns in Jerusalem.
Tell the world about his unforgettable deeds. – Psalm 9:9-11

How great is the goodness
you have stored up for those who fear you.
You lavish it on those who come to you for protection,
blessing them before the watching world.
You hide them in the shelter of your presence,
safe from those who conspire against them.
You shelter them in your presence,
far from accusing tongues. – Psalm 31:19-20

Today’s Reading: Acts 14; Psalm 44

The same thing happened in Iconium. Paul and Barnabas went to the Jewish synagogue and preached with such power that a great number of both Jews and Greeks became believers. Some of the Jews, however, spurned God’s message and poisoned the minds of the Gentiles against Paul and Barnabas. But the apostles stayed there a long time, preaching boldly about the grace of the Lord. And the Lord proved their message was true by giving them power to do miraculous signs and wonders. – Acts 14:1-3

Paul and Barnabas experienced opposition again in Iconium, yet instead of moving on, they stayed. Sometimes in the face of opposition, the Holy Spirit leads us to WALK AWAY and sometimes he tells us to STAY; yet sometimes he directs us to FLEE. That is what Paul and Barnabas did next. When a mob of both Gentiles and Jews threatened to attack and stone them, they fled.

SOMETIMES WE FACE PERSECUTION ON OUR JOURNEY.

But good came from this persecution as Paul and Barnabas preached the good news in the next two towns they visited — Lystra and Derbe. The reaction at first was quite the opposite, as the people tried to make Paul and Barnabas into gods to worship.

While they were at Lystra, Paul and Barnabas came upon a man with crippled feet. He had been that way from birth, so he had never walked. He was sitting and listening as Paul preached. Looking straight at him, Paul realized he had faith to be healed. So Paul called to him in a loud voice, “Stand up!” And the man jumped to his feet and started walking.

When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in their local dialect, “These men are gods in human form!” – Acts 14:8-11

Because the culture of these towns was to worship the Greek god Zeus, their natural response was to bring bulls and wreaths of flowers to the town gates, preparing to make sacrifices to these two men who they assumed must be gods themselves. Paul quickly cleared up the confusion letting them know they were merely humans there to bring the Good News.

“Friends, why are you doing this? We are merely human beings—just like you! We have come to bring you the Good News that you should turn from these worthless things and turn to the living God, who made heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them. In the past he permitted all the nations to go their own ways, but he never left them without evidence of himself and his goodness. For instance, he sends you rain and good crops and gives you food and joyful hearts.” But even with these words, Paul and Barnabas could scarcely restrain the people from sacrificing to them. – Acts 14:15-18

Paul and Barnabas were right to not revel in the praise of man. They knew popularity could fade as quickly as it appeared. Sure enough, troublemakers arrived and began stirring up the crowds against them. The fickle townspeople stoned Paul and dragged him out of town, thinking he was dead.

So what did Paul do this time? Did he shake the dust off his feet and leave? Did he choose to stay or did he flee? As the believers gathered around the injured apostle, Paul rose to his feet and went back into the town. When it would have been easy to run and hide, Paul chose courage instead.

The next day Paul left with Barnabas for Derbe, where they made many disciples. Paul and Barnabas stopped by Lystra, Iconium and Antioch of Pisidia on their way home from this long journey. They had one more message to convey using the example of their own lives — a reminder that we must suffer many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God (14:22).

SOMETIMES WE FACE SUFFERING ON OUR JOURNEY.

This is a good reminder for us today. God has called each of us to a special purpose. He promises to be with us but He does not promise that our journey will be without distractions, opposition, persecution and sometimes suffering. He has given us the Holy Spirit who will show us what to do when these problems arise. He might lead us to walk away or He may call us to stay. He might warn us to flee from the enemy or He may give us the strength to get up on our feet and go back.

I am so thankful for His direction and strength in any and every situation. I praise Him and thank Him for the wisdom He gives us to know how and when to respond. As long as we continue to worship and fast, remaining close to God, He will communicate to us through His Spirit. Praise God for His constant faithfulness!

Only by your power can we push back our enemies;
only in your name can we trample our foes.
I do not trust in my bow;
I do not count on my sword to save me.
You are the one who gives us victory over our enemies;
you disgrace those who hate us.
O God, we give glory to you all day long
and constantly praise your name. – Psalm 44:5-8

Today’s Reading: Acts 13; Psalm 27

Among the prophets and teachers of the church at Antioch of Syria were Barnabas, Simeon (called “the black man”), Lucius (from Cyrene), Manaen (the childhood companion of King Herod Antipas), and Saul. One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.” So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way. – Acts 13:1-3

It was while they were worshiping the Lord that they received directions from God; it was while they were fasting that the Holy Spirit gave them a message. What a privilege to be called by God to do His work! What an honor to be surrounded by the community of believers as they encourage you to embrace your calling and as they pray for the journey ahead.

The next two chapters of Acts describe Barnabas and Paul’s first missionary journey from Antioch. Their experience varied from town to town and so did the response. When they arrived in Paphos, Paul and Barnabas met with the governor, Sergius Paulus. He was an intelligent man with a desire to hear the word of God, but there was a voice in his life that was distracting him.

Sometimes there are barriers or distractions in our lives preventing us from fully trusting in God. In the case of the governor, it was a Jewish sorcerer named Bar-Jesus (also known as Elymas) who was keeping him from finding faith in Jesus. Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, identified the sorcerer for what he was — a tool of the devil and an enemy. Instantly mist and darkness came over his eyes and he began groping around begging for someone to take his hand and lead him. The distraction was silenced and the governor became a believer, for he was astonished at the teaching about the Lord (Acts 13:6-12).

SOMETIMES WE FACE DISTRACTIONS ON OUR JOURNEY.

Next Paul and Barnabas ended up in Antioch of Pisidia, where they were invited to give a word of encouragement for the people during the weekly service in the synagogue. Paul reminded them of the history of Israel and how Jesus fulfilled many prophecies, how he was condemned instead of recognized and how God raised him from the dead.

“Brothers, listen! We are here to proclaim that through this man Jesus there is forgiveness for your sins. Everyone who believes in him is declared right with God — something the law of Moses could never do. Be careful! Don’t let the prophets’ words apply to you. For they said, ‘Look, you mockers, be amazed and die! For I am doing something in your own day, something you wouldn’t believe even if someone told you about it.’” – Acts 13:38-41

Paul’s message of grace was accepted and they were invited to stay for another week. The Gentiles were thankful for these missionaries and many became believers. Opposition arose, however, among the Jews and a mob ran Paul and Barnabas out of town. So they shook the dust off of their feet and went on to Iconium.

SOMETIMES WE FACE OPPOSITION ON OUR JOURNEY.

Let’s consider the experience of these men of God in order to be equipped for the opposition ahead of us. Things had been going so well for Paul and Barnabas in Antioch of Pisidia. Their ministry was experiencing fruit as many were coming to believe in who Jesus was and accepting the message of salvation by grace. But SOME of the Jews were jealous and began slandering Paul, arguing against the message he was preaching — not all of them, just SOME. While Sergius Paulus was distracted by ONE voice, the entire city was influenced when SOME stirred up those with influence and incited a mob against them.

It was while they were worshiping the Lord that the apostles received directions from God; it was while they were fasting that the Holy Spirit gave them a message. It was while they were preaching that many came to believe in the Lord. And it was while their ministry was experiencing much fruit that the enemy began to use the voices of SOME to stir up trouble, opposing and distracting the believers from what God had called them to do.

The volume of even one person in our life can become a distraction to the truth of God’s word if we do not silence it. The lies of a few jealous individuals can quickly taint the success of a ministry if we allow them to continue to stir up trouble. But, even though Paul and Barnabas went on to the next town, the believers left behind were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit (13:52). They were thankful for the message they had received and continued to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, despite those who tried everything to keep them from believing. Paul and Barnabas had been called to bring salvation to the farthest corners of the earth and God was blessing their discipleship efforts.

Lord, help us to see past those who oppose your message so that we can see those who are growing in their faith. Help us to block out the words of discouragement and criticism so that we can hear the praises of your people. When the enemy tries to convince us that there is a majority against us, help us see the truth of the quantity regardless of the volume. Thank you for today’s reminder to focus on the fruit of the ministry rather than the thorns. Give us the strength to stay when we are supposed to stay, and give us the wisdom to leave when we are supposed to shake the dust off our feet and move on.

The Lord is my light and my salvation—
so why should I be afraid?
The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger,
so why should I tremble?
When evil people come to devour me,
when my enemies and foes attack me,
they will stumble and fall.
Though a mighty army surrounds me,
my heart will not be afraid.
Even if I am attacked,
I will remain confident. – Psalm 27:1-3

Today’s Reading: Acts 12; Psalm 73

I studied the tendencies of two men this morning as I drank my coffee — Peter the Apostle and Herod the King. Peter was highly esteemed and respected in the early Church among both Jewish and Gentile believers. King Herod was well liked among the Jewish leaders, gaining their favor for his persecution of the early Christians and his order to kill the apostle James with a sword.

When Herod saw how much this pleased the Jewish people, he also arrested Peter (This took place during the Passover Celebration.) Then he imprisoned him, placing him under the guard of four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring Peter out for public trial after the Passover. – Acts 12:3-4

HEROD LOVED RECEIVING PRAISE AND ATTENTION.

Herod was SO pleased with the praise and attention he received when he put the apostle James to death that he immediately craved more attention. How could he top this one? Perhaps by arresting an even more popular apostle, one who had already been arrested at one point but had escaped. If he could arrest Peter, he could accomplish what others could not! He would arrest Peter and put so many guards on him that it would be impossible for him to escape this time.

Consider the timing of Peter’s arrest. Herod wanted the attention of as many of the Jewish people as possible so he arrested Peter during the Jewish Passover celebration with the intent of bringing him to public trial right after the Passover. Sound familiar? At the same time the traditional Passover lamb was to be slain, Jesus was crucified. If the Jewish people wanted a blood sacrifice to save them, Herod would give it to them through the death of Peter.

The night before Peter was to be placed on trial, he was asleep, fastened with two chains between two soldiers. Others stood guard at the prison gate. Suddenly, there was a bright light in the cell, and an angel of the Lord stood before Peter. The angel struck him on the side to awaken him and said, “Quick! Get up!” And the chains fell off his wrists. Then the angel told him, “Get dressed and put on your sandals.” And he did. “Now put on your coat and follow me,” the angel ordered.

So Peter left the cell, following the angel. But all the time he thought it was a vision. He didn’t realize it was actually happening. They passed the first and second guard posts and came to the iron-gate leading to the city, and this opened for them all by itself. So they passed through and started walking down the street, and then the angel suddenly left him.

Peter finally came to his senses. “It’s really true!” he said. “The Lord has sent his angel and saved me from Herod and from what the Jewish leaders had planned to do to me!” – Acts 12:6-11

Imagine what this experience must have been like for Peter. I picture him standing in the middle of the dark street; all is quiet as everyone is already in their homes for the night. He is standing there in confusion thinking, “Did that really just happen?!!” As reality sinks in, I imagine a big smile coming across Peter’s face as tears of joy begin to fill his eyes. I picture Peter raising his arms towards heaven and thanking the God who loved him THAT much. At some point, I wonder if Peter thought, “I have to tell everyone! The church needs to know how faithful God is!”

PETER POINTED THE ATTENTION OF OTHERS TOWARDS GOD AND GAVE HIM PRAISE.

While Peter was in prison, the church was earnestly praying for him (12:5). Peter went to the home of Mary, the mother of John Mark, where many believers were gathered for prayer. Imagine their shock when they opened the door and saw Peter standing there. Scripture says they were AMAZED. Peter motioned for them to quiet down and then told them how the Lord had led him out of prison. He was quick to let them know that his escape was not about him but about God; this feat was not by his strength but by God’s power, mercy and grace! – (Acts 12:12-17)

In contrast, Herod was in Caesarea, dressed in royal robes and sitting on his throne. A delegation of people trying to win his favor from Tyre and Sidon were his audience and he was making a grand speech. The people gave him a great ovation, shouting, “It’s the voice of a god, not of a man!” Just the attention and glory he craved! But God has never been impressed with man’s need for pride or by our tendency to soak in the glory of men’s praise.

Instantly, an angel of the Lord struck Herod with a sickness, because he accepted the people’s worship instead of giving glory to God. So he was consumed with worms and died. – Acts 12:23

HOW MUCH DOES GOD HATE OUR PRIDE?

How angry does God get when we crave the attention and praise of others? Consider this – Herod killed the apostle James, whom God loved very much, and nothing happened. Herod arrested Peter with the intent to bring him to trial and God rescued Peter without bringing physical harm to Herod. Herod accepted the praise of men when they worshiped him as if he was a god, and God struck Herod with a sickness that would lead to a painful and miserable death.

Oh great and wonderful God, only you are worthy of our praise and glory today and forevermore! Forgive us for our moments of satisfaction and pride in ourselves. May we crave only your attention and may you be pleased with our humility and service to you today. We love you! Amen.

Today’s Reading: Acts 11; Psalm 66

Soon the news reached the apostles and other believers in Judea that the Gentiles had received the word of God. But when Peter arrived back in Jerusalem, the Jewish believers criticized him. – Acts 11:1-2

DO NOT WORRY ABOUT WHAT OTHER PEOPLE THINK

Instead of celebrating the success of Peter’s evangelistic efforts, the Jewish believers were initially taken aback by Peter’s choice of an audience. Instead of weakening from their pressure, Peter told them what God had revealed to him and of how the Holy Spirit had filled the Gentile believers. Peter told his story; he gave his testimony. As a result, the Jewish believers stopped objecting and began praising God.

“We can see that God has also given the Gentiles the privilege of repenting of their sins and receiving eternal life.” – Acts 11:18b

PETER’S ACTIONS HELPED ELIMINATE DISCRIMINATION

If Peter had not stood up for what he knew was right, the beliefs of others might not have changed. Because he was bold for Christ and stood up for those who were being rejected, the believers across Judea gained an understanding of God’s love for EVERYONE. This led to the sending of missionaries to the Gentiles for the express purpose of their salvation. They went from seeing the Gentiles as unclean to seeing their need for a Savior. They then went on to invest in the salvation of the Gentiles.

Meanwhile, the believers who had been scattered during the persecution after Stephen’s death traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch of Syria. They preached the word of God, but only to Jews. However, some of the believers who went to Antioch from Cyprus and Cyrene began preaching to the Gentiles about the Lord Jesus. The power of the Lord was with them, and a large number of these Gentiles believed and turned to the Lord. – Acts 11:19-21

The church in Jerusalem was so excited about all that was happening in Antioch that they decided to send Barnabas. The evidence of God’s blessing on the Gentiles was clear. Barnabas responded with joy and encouraged the new believers to remain true to the Lord they were now serving.

Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith. And many people were brought to the Lord. – Acts 11:24

What a wonderful experience for Barnabas! He went to Tarsus to find Paul, and then he brought him back to Antioch. They stayed in Tarsus for a full year, teaching large crowds of people. And it was in Antioch that these new Gentile believers were first called Christians. What a privilege for these Christ followers to bear the name of the one who had died for their sins — the one who had crossed the invisible boundaries of prejudice so that they might experience freedom from sin. In response, they gave their life to spread the good news of salvation and lead others to Christ.

And here is a fun part of the story! These new Gentile believers heard the predictions by the Spirit that a great famine was coming upon the entire Roman world. The believers generously sent relief to their new brothers and sisters in Christ in Judea. I love it! Those who were once victims of racism are now making a difference in the lives of those who used to treat them unjustly.

What a great example of love, grace and mercy. Sometimes God teaches us and corrects our wrong thinking, not just for the benefit of others, but also as part of a bigger plan to save us. Thanks be to God! What a privilege it is to bear his name with confidence, and what a joy it is to allow Him to make a difference in the lives of others through us. How generous of God to take the lives of those who have entered into a personal relationship with Jesus because we allowed God to speak through us, and then use these new friends to make an impact in our lives! God is so good!

Lord, thank you for this beautiful reciprocity! We praise you for the blessing of relationship with those to whom we are sharing our faith. It is a joy to walk alongside someone on their journey of grace; it is a privilege to play a small role in their discovery of faith. Jesus, show us any areas in our life where our thinking is conforming to the ideas of today’s culture, and may our hearts consistently reflect your love and grace, without sacrificing the truth of who you are and what you are calling each of us to become in you. Amen.

Come and listen, all you who fear God,
and I will tell you what he did for me.
For I cried out to him for help,
praising him as I spoke.
If I had not confessed the sin in my heart,
the Lord would not have listened.
But God did listen!
He paid attention to my prayer.
Praise God, who did not ignore my prayer
or withdraw his unfailing love from me. – Psalm 66:16-20

Today’s Reading: Acts 10

Peter told them, “You know it is against our laws for a Jewish man to enter a Gentile home like this or to associate with you. But God has shown me that I should no longer think of anyone as impure or unclean…I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right…” – Acts 10:28, 34-35

Peter, like all Jewish young men, had grown up with the false idea that Gentiles were impure – that God’s plan of salvation was only for the Jewish people. It took a vision from God to wake Peter up to the truth. It took God Himself revealing His love for all people for Peter to understand that God does not show favoritism. There are a few things I noticed this morning about Peter’s experience.

GOD SPOKE TO PETER WHILE PETER WAS PRAYING TO HIM

If we want to hear from God, we need to spend time with Him. Peter had gone up on the roof to pray. It was during this time of separating himself from others and spending time with God in prayer that God was able to reveal to Peter some erroneous thinking that needed to be corrected.

Peter’s vision was of a large sheet being let down from the sky, full of all sorts of animals, reptiles, and birds. This group of animals included those that the Jewish people considered unclean and were forbidden to eat. Imagine Peter’s confusion when, in the vision, God told Peter to get up and eat the animals.

Peter’s reaction:
“I have never eaten anything that our Jewish laws have declared impure and unclean.” (Acts 10:14)
God’s correction:
“Do not call something unclean if God has made it clean.” (Acts 10:15)

SOMETIMES GOD HAS TO TELL US SOMETHING MULTIPLE TIMES BEFORE WE GET IT

This vision from God was repeated three times and still Peter did not get it. The Holy Spirit told Peter to go downstairs and leave with the three men God had sent. These men took him to the home of Cornelius, a Roman officer — a devout and God-fearing man but also a Gentile. This journey helped Peter to finally understand that he was no longer to call one of God’s children unclean.

Peter preached the Good News to Cornelius, as well as to his household and friends, and the Holy Spirit came upon all of them. Peter and the Jewish believers with him were amazed that God’s gift of the Holy Spirit was being poured out on the Gentiles also.

DON’T ARGUE WITH GOD

When God’s presence is obvious in the lives of others, don’t look for reasons to criticize or exclude them. When the Spirit within you prompts you to be present in the life of another person, do not argue or hesitate.

Then Peter asked, “Can anyone object to their being baptized, now that they have received the Holy Spirit just as we did?” — Acts 10:47

GOD DOES NOT SHOW FAVORITISM

Our God is complex and He is generous. He shows no favoritism. Do we? He does not look down on groups of people because of their ethnicity or background or sin; instead, He loves them. Do we?

A few years ago, while visiting Bridgeway Community Church, I heard Dr. Jeff Stark make this profound statement: “Any form of superiority based on any conceived or constructed identity is inconsistent with the gospel of Jesus Christ…One cannot call themselves a follower of the One who died on the cross for the salvation of all humankind — regardless of what they look like, what color their skin is or where they’ve come from — and call themselves a follower of that Savior and Messiah. It’s inconceivable and it is not in any way consistent with the gospel of Jesus Christ.”

Lord, give us a heart that loves others like you love them. Help us to show our love for you through our actions towards those around us. Help us never to buy into the lies of racism, cooperate with discrimination or be drawn towards favoritism. Give us eyes to see as you see and a heart that beats in rhythm with yours! Amen.

I solemnly command you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus and the highest angels to obey these instructions without taking sides or showing favoritism to anyone. – 1 Timothy 5:21

For God does not show favoritism. – Romans 2:11

But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness. – James 3:17-18

Today’s Reading: Acts 9:32-43; 1 Timothy 1:12-17; Psalm 34

PAUL THE PREACHER

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him, EVEN THOUGH I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief. Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with faith and love that come from Christ Jesus.

This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” – and I am the worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen. – 1 Timothy 1:12-17

Saul has a huge story to tell after his conversion. Saul’s testimony is extreme and God used him in powerful ways EVEN THOUGH his past was full of regrets. But what about those of us who do not have a big story to share, whose transformation was still very real, yet less dramatic?

AENEAS THE PARALYTIC

Meanwhile, Peter traveled from place to place, and he came down to visit the believers in the town of Lydda. There he met a man named Aeneas, who had been paralyzed and bedridden for eight years. Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you! Get up, roll up your sleeping mat!” And he was healed instantly. Then the whole population of Lydda and Sharon saw Aeneas walking around, and they turned to the Lord. – Acts 9:32-35

His story was not about what a wicked man he was, but about how he had suffered. The same God of mercy who forgave Paul and then used his story also had mercy on this unfortunate man and used his healing to turn two towns to the Lord.

TABITHA THE SEAMSTRESS

Consider Tabitha the Seamstress (also known as Dorcas). Tabitha was a good person. She was always doing kind things for others and helping the poor. She made clothing for others and cared deeply for them. Her life was a stark contrast to Paul’s history of making life miserable for others. Two people with two very different backgrounds, both in need of the mercy of God and the salvation available through faith in Jesus Christ.

About this time she became ill and died. Her body was washed for burial and laid in an upstairs room. But the believers had heard that Peter was nearby at Lydda, so they sent two men to beg him, “Please come as soon as possible!”

So Peter returned with them; and as soon as he arrived, they took him to the upstairs room. The room was filled with widows who were weeping and showing him the coats and other clothes Dorcas had made for them. But Peter asked them all to leave the room; then he knelt and prayed. Turning to the body he said, “Get up, Tabitha.” And she opened her eyes! He gave her his hand and helped her up. Then he called in the widows and all the believers, and he presented her to them alive. The news spread through the whole town, and many believed in the Lord. – Acts 9:37-42

6 people, 6 different stories – all used by God in the lives of other people:

Stephen spoke boldly about Jesus, knowing it would mean sacrificing his life. His courageous devotion to God resulted in the scattering of the believers, which brought about the spread of the gospel across the region.

Philip obeyed the Lord and the Ethiopian eunuch was saved, possibly changing the lives of many people as the eunuch returned to Ethiopia with an understanding of the gospel and most likely a heart to share that message with others.

Paul changed his ways and led one of the strongest evangelistic ministries in history, becoming a beautiful example of how God can take even the vilest offender and transform their life into a powerful conduit of God’s message of salvation.

Aeneas simply allowed God to take his story of suffering and use it for His glory as the whole population of Lydda and Sharon turned to the Lord. His story made it into the Spirit-inspired word of God and continues to impact lives today.

Tabitha’s reputation as a good and selfless person caused people to care enough about her death that her resurrection ended up changing their lives forever.

Simon was a simple tanner of hides and his story only takes one verse of the bible, yet his willingness to open up his home allowed Peter to stay in Joppa for a long time (9:43). Imagine how many lives were impacted by this show of hospitality.

WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

Don’t let anyone tell you that your story isn’t powerful enough to make a difference in someone else’s life. Don’t let anyone tell you that your sin is too great for God’s grace. Do not let yourself be convinced that you don’t have a story or that God would never use you. In fact, He plans to use you today. It might be through your courage or obedience; it might be through your suffering or your hospitality. Are you ready? Most importantly, are you willing?

This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” – and I am the worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen. – 1 Timothy 1:15-17

I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises.
I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are helpless take heart.
Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt his name together. – Psalm 34:1-3