- Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. Acts 8:4 – Great persecution can open the doors for the great commission. Often we wonder why we are going through difficulties in our story. Loss of job, health issues, broken relationship. What if though we looked at those difficulties as God opening new doors and new opportunities for us to share His Word in ways we couldn’t before. A health issue might give a platform we never had before to share about His grace. Loss of a job might equal new people to talk with about Jesus at the new place of work. This mindset is looking past the sadness that comes with difficulties and looking for the reason behind it all. As with the disciples, difficulties can open paths to sharing God’s love that weren’t there before. Trust God knows what He is doing. I love you, but Jesus loves you more – Mac – Daily DEVO 637
- So there was much joy in that city. Acts 8:8 – A very simple verse, but understanding the context makes it a very special verse too. Saul had begun his persecution of the church and a result of that was believers in Jesus being scattered to different places outside Jerusalem. One believer by the name of Philip went to Samaria during this scattering and preached the Gospel there. This city and people who had once such harshness toward the Jewish people now was listening carefully to the words of the Gospel and accepting Jesus. What then was the result of Philip going to Samaria, a city that is known for their hatred of Jews, and him sharing the gospel with them? Much joy was in that city because that city met Jesus. They found forgiveness of their sins and salvation for their souls. We too may be scattered from where we are comfortable and called to speak with people we have history with, but the result when God is in the mix can be “much joy.” For salvation can be found by those we speak with. We also can find reconciliation, healing, and togetherness out of such conversations. Wherever then God leads you, share the good news of Jesus with whoever you meet. You may just become the carrier of much joy into their story. I love you, but Jesus loves you more – Mac – Daily DEVO 2534
Daily DEVO 