Acts 20-21 Obeying God's Call, No Matter the Cost
Ready to dig deeper into your faith? Our weekly 5-day devotionals are like a guided conversation with the sermon. We'll ask questions, share Bible verses, and help you uncover amazing things about God and yourself! There is a new set posted each Sunday after the service.
Monday
Just as Paul felt the Holy Spirit's urging to go to Jerusalem, God may be calling you to a specific task or location. Even if it seems daunting, remember that He will equip and guide you.
Acts 21:13 (NIV) - "Then Paul answered, 'Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.'"
Do I sense God calling me to something specific, even if it seems difficult or uncomfortable? Am I willing to step out in faith and trust God's leading, even when it's uncertain?
Lord, give me the courage to follow your call, no matter the cost. Help me to be sensitive to your voice and to trust your plans for my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Tuesday
Like Paul, we may face opposition and false accusations for our faith. But we can trust in God's protection and use those challenges as opportunities to share the truth of the Gospel.
Acts 21:28 (NIV) - "Men of Israel, help us! This is the man who teaches all men everywhere against our people and our law and this place. And besides, he has brought Greeks into the temple area and defiled this holy place."
How do I respond when my faith is misrepresented or attacked? Am I willing to stand for truth, even when it's unpopular or inconvenient?
Father, when I face opposition, give me the wisdom to respond with grace and the courage to stand firm in my beliefs. Use my challenges as opportunities to shine your light. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Wednesday
God often works in unexpected ways to protect and guide us. Just as Paul's Roman citizenship became a shield, we can trust that God will use every circumstance for our good.
Acts 22:25 (NIV) - "But when they stretched him out to flog him, Paul said to the centurion standing there, 'Is it legal for you to flog a Roman citizen who hasn't even been found guilty?'"
Can I identify times when God has unexpectedly protected or provided for me? How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's providence, even when things seem uncertain?
Lord, thank you for your constant protection and guidance. Help me to see your hand at work in every situation, and to trust that you are working all things together for my good. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Thursday
The story of Leah Sharibu reminds us that following Jesus may require great sacrifice. Yet, even in the face of extreme hardship, we can find strength and courage in our faith.
Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) - "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."
Am I willing to make sacrifices for my faith, even if it means facing hardship or persecution? How can I draw strength from the examples of those who have suffered for their beliefs?
Lord, give me the faith and courage of Leah Sharibu. Help me to prioritize my relationship with you above all else, even in the face of adversity. May my life be a testament to your unwavering love and faithfulness. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Friday
Following Jesus is not a path of ease, but it is the path to true fulfillment and eternal life. When we embrace the cost of discipleship, we discover the immeasurable rewards of knowing Christ.
Matthew 16:24-25 (NIV) - "Then Jesus said to his disciples, 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.'"
What are the costs and rewards of following Jesus in my life? How can I embrace the sacrifices and challenges of discipleship with joy and hope?
Lord, help me to count the cost of following you and to embrace it wholeheartedly. May I never lose sight of the eternal rewards that await those who faithfully serve you. In Jesus' name, Amen.
No Comments