July 10 — "You Don’t Need a Mic—Just a Verse"

Today's Reading: Acts 15:22-41

Sometimes the greatest ministry isn’t behind a microphone or under a spotlight—it is strengthening others with God’s words. In a world blasting us with noise, confusion, and discouragement, God still raises up voices like Judas and Silas—prophets who “encouraged and strengthened the brothers with many words.” Their calling wasn’t about theatrics or popularity. It was about breathing life, truth, and hope into hearts running on empty.

In Acts 15, the early church tackled a major theological crisis: is salvation by grace through faith... or something more? Once the dust settled and the truth was affirmed, you’d think the work was done. But no—clarity didn’t erase their weariness. The people still needed encouragement. That’s when Judas and Silas stepped in. Not to make predictions or dazzle with foresight, but to deliver Spirit-led, truth-filled encouragement straight from God’s heart.

Friend, let’s be real: today’s world isn’t much different. Hearts are tired. Faith is stretched thin. Truth? Constantly under fire. People around you—maybe even you—are anxious for encouragement. And here’s the best part: God wants to use you to deliver it. You don’t need a platform or a title. Just a willing heart. It might be a simple text message or a quiet moment over coffee, or a gentle reminder of God’s promises. That’s ministry. That’s powerful. That’s you, stepping in like Judas and Silas.

Picture this: someone at church is walking through deep waters—job loss, health struggles, or just a heaviness you can feel but can’t explain. You’ve been praying for them. Then, during your devotional time, Isaiah 41:10 jumps out at you: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God...” A nudge stirs inside—you sense this is for them. So, obeying the prompting of the Spirit, you send a simple, sincere message that goes something like this: “Hey brother, Isaiah 41:10 hit me hard this morning. God hasn’t forgotten you. Even when everything feels like it’s slipping, He’s holding you steady. I’m standing with you in prayer. Keep holding on—He’s faithful.”

That’s it. No sermon. No Greek or Hebrew. Just truth. Just love. And boom—your brother in Christ is strengthened.

You can do this. Ask the Lord for a tender heart and a timely Scripture. Then speak. Gently. Boldly. Joyfully. Someone out there needs the Word inside you.  Ask the Lord today: “Who needs encouragement?” Then open your mouth—and let hope pour out. 

July 9 — "No Hoops, Just Grace"

Today's Reading: Acts 15:1-21

Following Jesus isn’t about checking spiritual boxes or dragging around a suitcase full of religious rules—it’s about receiving grace. Glorious, undeserved, game-changing grace! Acts 15:10–11 makes it crystal clear: salvation is God’s gift, not our achievement. The Apostle Peter doesn’t hold back—he proclaims that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus. Not by works. Not by law. Not by jumping through hoops.

Acts 15 captures a heated showdown: Should Gentile believers follow the Law of Moses—circumcision, dietary codes, Sabbath observance—to be real Christians? Peter stands up and reminds them all that God gave the Holy Spirit to the Gentiles without a single ritual or requirement. No hoops. No ladder. Just grace poured out. And then Peter drops the mic: “Why are you putting God to the test?” He calls everyone back to the heart of the Gospel: we are saved by grace. Period. No asterisks. No fine print. No rituals. No merit badges. Just Jesus.

Maybe you’ve been there—feeling like you’re not doing “enough” for God. Maybe guilt’s been whispering that you have to earn your seat at the table. But friend, listen: Peter’s voice still echoes today—you are saved through grace alone. That is enough! Rest in that. Breathe it in. Let it free you from performing for God’s approval.

Drop the burden you were never meant to carry. If you’ve been living under the scoreboard of spiritual performance, trade it in for the yoke of Jesus. “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28–30). Stand tall in grace! Worship, pray, work, and live—not trying to be worthy, but knowing you already are. Grace doesn’t just forgive you—it empowers you to live boldly and love recklessly.

May the Lord saturate your heart with His amazing grace, lift every burden off your soul, and fill you with joy that can’t be shaken. Walk boldly, walk freely, walk joyfully in the love He’s already lavished on you. 

July 8 — "Faith That Leans In"

Today's Reading: Acts 14

When others see your faith in action, it can inspire bold moves of God in their lives.

Take Acts 14: Paul is preaching in Lystra when he spots a man who’s never taken a single step. But Paul doesn’t just see his condition—he sees something deeper. This man isn’t distracted or disengaged; he’s locked in, eyes fixed, body leaning forward, heart quietly roaring—with faith. His posture, his eagerness, his very presence screamed, “I believe God can do the impossible.” And Paul? He didn’t hesitate. He declared, “Stand upright on your feet!” In that instant, the man jumped up and walked like he’d been doing it all his life.

Here’s the wild truth: faith shows. It’s not just a thought we keep tucked in our hearts or a feeling we hide behind polite nods in church. It reveals itself—in how we lean in, how we listen, how we carry ourselves when the odds are stacked sky-high. It flickers in our eyes, echoes in our voices, and rises up in our response to God’s Word. Genuine faith is impossible to miss.

Picture this: a child in front of a birthday cake, candles blazing. The whole room pauses. Nobody has to tell him what to do—he’s already leaning in, eyes lit with expectation, lungs loading up for that magical puff. That kind of expectancy—that wide-eyed, “this is it” anticipation—is what Paul saw in the crippled man. It wasn’t noise. It was readiness. It was faith! And it pulled heaven’s power to earth.

So here’s the question: Can people see your faith? Are you leaning into God’s promises like they’re rock-solid truths? Because guess what? They are. Your faith might be the very nudge someone else needs to rise, speak, hope, or heal. You never know who’s quietly watching your joy, your peace, your quiet confidence in the storm.

Don’t stash your faith away. Let it radiate—in your listening, your loving, your living. Let it hum with expectancy and glow with trust. Because your visible faith might just be someone else’s open door to healing, hope, and salvation.

May the Lord make your faith shine so brightly it stirs hearts to believe. May your expectancy light up dark places. May your trust become a beacon that draws others to His power and grace. 

July 7 — "Holy Spirit—Holy Joy"

Today's Reading: Acts 13:26-52

There’s a joy that outlasts hardship, outshines sorrow, and overwhelms fear—and spoiler alert: it’s not from this world. In Acts 13, even as Paul and Barnabas faced fierce opposition, Scripture says the disciples were “filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” That moment draws a glorious contrast between everyday happiness and heaven-born, Holy-Spirit-powered joy.

Paul and Barnabas preached the Gospel boldly in Pisidian Antioch. While many Gentiles received the message with gladness, others stirred up trouble. But instead of panicking or pouting, the disciples were bursting with joy—not because of the hostility but in spite of it. Why? Because their joy wasn’t tied to good vibes or positive headlines or pleasant circumstances. It flowed from the Holy Spirit—who doesn’t hand out shallow smiles, but deep, durable delight.

See, happiness depends on circumstances; it’s a sunny-day emotion. But Holy Spirit joy? It’s rooted in God’s presence, anchored in His promises, and fueled by His unstoppable power—regardless of what's going on around us. Holy Spirit joy isn’t a feeling; it’s a force. It’s like someone turned on a light inside your soul that doesn’t flicker when the wind blows. It doesn’t ignore pain or pretend troubles aren’t real—but it remains confident and peaceful during those troubles.

You haven’t really experienced true joy until the joy of the Holy Spirit detonates in your soul. This isn’t your average, smile-for-the-camera happiness. No, this is joy that roars through your spirit like a holy wildfire—unbothered by circumstance, undiminished by trial, and completely untouchable by the enemy.

Today, we’re often caught chasing happiness: better jobs, easy relationships, or the next bite of instant gratification. But those things? They’re like cotton candy—bright and sugary, but they vanish before you finish your sentence. Holy Spirit joy, though, is more like a well dug deep into bedrock. It doesn’t run dry, even when everything else does. This joy is clean, steady, quietly fierce. It grounds us in storms and steadies our hearts in chaos—because it’s not man-made. It’s heaven-poured.

So, ditch the surface-level stuff. Go after the deep well. Soak in God’s Word. Invite the Holy Spirit to fill every corner of your soul. Don’t base your joy on fleeting feelings—build it on the Rock. Let the Spirit craft in you a joy that sings in valleys and shines through storms.

Today, may the Lord lift your eyes from life’s shaky ground and fleeting happiness. May His Spirit fill you with a joy that defies your trials. May you sing through the storm, and shine with a joy that leaves the world speechless. 

July 6 — "Jesus: The Center of It All"

Today's Reading: Acts 13:1-25

From the roots of human history to the hope of every heart, Jesus stands at the very center of God’s unfolding plan to rescue humanity.

In Acts 13, the Apostle Paul stands in a first-century Jewish synagogue and delivers a masterclass in God’s redemptive story. Beginning with Israel’s forefathers from Abraham to David, he traces a clear line through Jewish history—not to impress with facts, but to point to a person: Jesus. Then comes the mic drop moment in verse 23—God has brought to Israel the very Savior He promised—Jesus the Nazarene. Boom! The long-awaited promises fulfilled, not in a concept or a creed, but in a living, breathing Savior named Jesus.

Paul’s sermon isn’t just a history lesson. It’s a declaration that all of God’s promises, all the prophetic anticipation, all the divine orchestration through centuries, was aimed at a deliberate plan—bringing Jesus into the world.

One of the most compelling evidences of Jesus’ true identity is prophecy fulfilled. Jesus didn’t arrive randomly—He came through the royal line of David as foretold (2 Samuel 7:12–13), was born in Bethlehem as foretold (Micah 5:2), was born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14), is a light to the Gentiles (Isaiah 49:6), and became the suffering servant who would bear our sins (Isaiah 53). Jesus came with one overriding and glorious purpose: to save us. "For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him." (john 3:17)

This reminds us that our faith isn’t built on myth or human philosophy, but on the person of Jesus Christ—God’s appointed Redeemer. In a world of shifting values and fading hopes, Jesus remains the fixed point. He is not only the centerpiece of human history—He is the anchor of your personal story too. When life feels fragmented, ground your heart in Him. Make His words your guide, His cross your anchor, and His resurrection your hope. Let Jesus be the center of your thoughts, relationships, decisions, dreams, worship, and life.

May the One who orchestrated history to reveal His Son now steady your steps in the present. May Jesus—the Promised One, the Fulfillment, the Savior—be the center of every thought, the anchor in every storm, and the joy that carries you forward.

 

July 5 — "Supernatural Jailbreak!"

Today's Reading: Acts 12

Imagine being trapped in an unbreakable prison. A prison of despair, fear, and hopelessness. What if I told you that liberation can happen at the most unexpected moment? Today, we're diving into a powerful story from Acts 12. It's the account of a supernatural jailbreak that reveals God's perfect timing and unstoppable power.

The story begins with Peter locked up. Chained between soldiers and guarded on all sides. Hope seemed lost. Herod had executed James, and Peter was next. The church prayed, but darkness loomed heavy. Then, suddenly, God dispatched an angel. Light pierced the darkness. Chains fell to the ground, and Peter walked out undetected.

The angel didn’t negotiate; he awakened Peter and led him to freedom. This wasn’t just escape; it was divine intervention. But here’s the incredible part: God still performs supernatural jailbreaks today.

Picture this. A heroin addict wanders into a church, drawn by sounds of music. No sermon, no altar call. Just then, the Holy Spirit crashes in. Addiction shatters in an instant. He walks out free from chains.

Now, think about a young man on the brink of despair. He prepares to end it all. At the last moment, he calls a crisis hotline. The operator shares the relentless love of Jesus from the Gospel of John. Suddenly, God's presence overwhelms him. He prays and his life transforms.

What about the pastor imprisoned for preaching the Gospel? Out of nowhere, he’s released due to mysterious "paperwork errors." Governments are puzzled, but believers rejoice. That’s not coincidence; that’s God at work.

Maybe you feel trapped in your own prison—fear, doubt, or circumstances. You might not see an angel, but God knows how to break chains. When the perfect moment arrives, He will say, “Get up quickly.” Your breakthrough is closer than you think! So, don’t lose heart. Keep praying. Keep believing. God is orchestrating your rescue. Get ready to rise when He speaks.

Your destiny isn’t in that prison. Freedom is.

Today, may God lift your gaze beyond the barriers, tune your ears to His voice, and ignite your heart with the freedom He has ordained for you.  May every chain break in His perfect timing, and may your testimony radiate with His unstoppable love and glory. 

July 4 — "Numbers, Nickels, & Noise"

Today's Reading: Acts 11

What breathes life into one ministry while another lies still and silent seemingly dead? It’s not branding, budget, personalities, or pizzazz. The difference-maker—the non-negotiable—is the hand of the Lord. When God’s hand rests on a ministry, there’s holy authority, supernatural harvest, and eternal echoes.

Here’s the sobering truth: not everything done for God is actually done with God. We can cast grand visions, raise funds, plan events, and craft holy-looking hustle. But without His hand? It’s busywork dressed in Sunday best.

Acts 11:21 says, “the hand of the Lord was with them.” This doesn’t mean a giant divine hand was descending from the clouds like a Marvel movie. It means God was active, present, and personal. His blessing hovered, His power stirred hearts, His Spirit drew people in.

This small verse speaks volumes. Much of what’s done in church today—though polished and well-meant—lacks the Lord’s touch. We’ve got plans minus prayer, worship minus wonder, sermons minus surrender. We’ve mastered ministry with our hands—and forgotten the only one that matters is His.

Tragically, many churches have become more focused on “numbers, nickels, and noise” than on the hand of the Lord. “Numbers” means crowd size. “Nickels” points to finances and fundraising. “Noise” captures flashy worship sets and endless programs—all of this can easily degrade into activity without spiritual substance.

But when His hand stirs, everything shifts. Hearts soften. Sinners turn. The weary are revived. That’s not strategy—it’s sacred communion. Not just ministry for Him, but intimacy with Him.

I built with my hands, I planned with my mind,
Yet empty the legacy I left behind.
For all my hustle—so noble, so grand,
Was hollow without the touch of His hand. (Author unknown)

So here’s the invitation: before your hands get busy, seek His. Before you preach, lead, or cast vision—pray. Listen. Linger. Measure success not by clicks or crowds or offering plates, but by the unmistakable evidence of His holy and gracious presence. Don’t dare do God’s work without God. His hand turns sparks into wildfires and motion into meaning. Without it? It’s just noise. With it—everything changes.

May His mighty hand rest on you today. May you walk in step with His whispers and move forward in simple, Spirit-filled obedience. 

July 3 — "Jesus: Do-Gooder"

Today's Reading: Acts 10:24-48

According to Acts 10:38, Jesus was a do-gooder. But He wasn’t just a nice guy doing kind deeds—He was a force of healing, restoration, and radical goodness in a broken world. This verse tells us He was anointed "with the Holy Spirit and power and went about doing good. He brought healing to the sick, fed the hungry, calmed storms, forgave sins, welcomed outcasts, cast out demons, taught deep truths, restored dignity to the broken, welcomed children, and ultimately sacrificed Himself for our salvation.

He didn’t simply pass through suffering—He confronted darkness and transformed it. And here’s the amazing thing: He’s still doing good today and He wants to do it through you and me! And as Peter described Jesus, he pointed to something incredible: Jesus didn’t fight evil with force He overwhelmed it with love and goodness. This is a call to recognize the compassionate, powerful heart of the Messiah.

If Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit, healed the broken and freed the oppressed—and that same Spirit now dwells in us—then guess what? Were carrying the baton! Our lives should echo His: stepping into messy situations with grace, praying for the sick, comforting the weary, and shining His light in dark places.

Never underestimate what the Spirit of God can do through an ordinary day and a willing heart. Ask Him where a little doing good is needed—a word of hope for a coworker, a prayer for someone sick, a visit to someone lonely. You don’t need a pulpit. You don't need an audience. You just need His power and your yes!

God was with Him. Four simple words from this verse are packed with profound meaning. Though fully God, Jesus didn’t operate independently—He walked in complete connection to His Heavenly Father, empowered by the Holy Spirit. His miracles, compassion, and obedience flowed from that unshakable union. And here’s the jaw-dropping reality: that same Spirit now dwells in every believer, and He empowers us to walk in Jesus' footsteps bringing hope to the weary, healing to the broken, and light to the darkest places. Let today be a day of divine appointments—wherever you go, bring light, healing, and hope. Because when God is with you, even the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

In light of this, may the Lord anoint you afresh with His Holy Spirit and power as you walk in step with Jesus. And may it be that you—like Jesus—go about doing good, shining His light into a dark world. Do some good today. Amen! 

July 2 — "When Labels Fall, Grace Rises"

Today's Reading: Acts 10:1-23

Be careful how you label things—or people. In Acts 10:15, God jolted Peter with a bold truth: “What God has made clean, do not call common.” This wasn’t a minor adjustment to Peter’s diet—it was a radical shift in his worldview! He thought he was being faithful, but his labels didn’t match God’s. This verse reminds us: Don’t mislabel what God has redeemed. Whether it’s people, places, or situations, our perception must align with God’s truth—not our own biases.

Peter lived in a world neatly divided: holy (set apart for God) or common (unclean; off-limits). This wasn’t just cultural—it was ingrained through centuries of religious tradition. To most Jews, Gentiles were outsiders. They didn’t follow the Law of Moses. They worshiped false gods. They lived differently. So, forming close relationships, entering their homes, or even touching them? Unthinkable.

This mindset built invisible walls: They’re not like us. Even devout Gentiles like Cornelius, who feared God and gave generously to His work were still seen as outsiders. To Peter, God’s saving power was inseparable from Jewish heritage and tradition, and not for Gentiles. So, when God called him to step into a Gentile’s home—to share the Gospel—it clashed with everything he’d been taught.

Peter didn’t believe Gentiles were unworthy of love—he simply assumed they were outside holiness’s reach. But God uprooted that thinking.

And here’s where it hits home—we still slap labels on people. We categorize them by politics, past mistakes, addictions, or appearances. We write off entire communities—biker clubs, rehab centers, Hollywood, tattoo shops, even certain churches—assuming God’s not working there. We’ve branded people lost causes when God is moving in ways we can’t see.

But if God calls someone clean, forgiven, chosen, and accepted—who are we to say otherwise?

It’s time for a spiritual label audit. Ask God: “Who or what have I misjudged?” Surrender assumptions. Replace human categories with heavenly truth. Instead of avoiding the atheist, the addict, the celebrity, or the broken—you might be the very person God wants to use to bring grace.

May God open your eyes beyond appearances. May He give you the humility to replace labels with His love. And may you step boldly into places and relationships you once wrote off—knowing grace is always bigger than our categories. 

July 1 — "The Ripple Effect of True Transformation"

 

Today's Reading: Acts 9:20-43

When Jesus transforms a life, the ripple effect is undeniable! Acts 9:22 tells us that Saul’s radical change in Christ confounded people. The Greek word means to bewilder, baffle, or shake someone up mentally and emotionally. Saul’s transformation wasn’t just surprising—it was disruptive. His encounter with Jesus sent shockwaves through his community, leaving both friends and enemies scrambling to make sense of it.

Saul, once a feared persecutor, had just met the risen Jesus on the road to Damascus, and now? He was boldly preaching Christ in the synagogues. His past made him a walking contradiction, and his new life forced people to wrestle with the truth. But here’s the thing—he wasn’t seeking approval. He wasn’t trying to impress anyone. He was compelled by the undeniable reality that Jesus is the Christ.

This is the ripple effect of a truly surrendered life—it doesn’t stop at personal change. It spreads, unsettling assumptions and challenging beliefs. Saul’s transformation wasn’t just his story; it had a domino effect on everyone around him. His old allies were thrown into confusion. His enemies couldn’t ignore him. Even believers had to reconsider how fully God’s grace could reach. That’s what happens when God flips the script—a changed life shakes the world!

Maybe you’ve worried that your past disqualifies you. But that’s a lie—your past is the very thing God uses to magnify His grace! Like Saul, when Jesus takes hold of your life, it demands attention. People will notice. Some will question, others will doubt—but a transformed life speaks for itself!

So don’t shrink back—share your story! Even if your testimony doesn’t seem dramatic, lean into Scripture, just as Saul did. Let the Holy Spirit deepen your faith, sharpen your understanding, and strengthen your resolve. Expect challenges, but stand firm. Keep proving, with your life and words, that Jesus is the Christ!

Today, may you live so boldly that people have to ask, “What happened to you?” And then you get to joyfully proclaim, “Jesus!!” And may the Lord bless you with a transformation so powerful that its ripple effect confounds, commissions, and glorifies Christ.

June 30 — "The Ultimate Plot Twist: Grace Wins"

Today's Reading: Acts 9:1-19

God loves a good plot twist—and He’s not afraid to cast the unlikeliest characters. In Acts 9, God says to Ananias that Saul “is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.” Hold up—He’s talking about Saul. The very same Saul who made it his personal mission to crush the church! Not just forgiven, not just tolerated—but chosen, handpicked by God for a world-shaking assignment.

Let’s not breeze past that. Saul wasn’t looking for Jesus. Jesus came crashing into Saul’s journey, full force and blazing glory—knocking him off his feet (literally), blinding him, and then raising him up again through the healing hands of grace. One divine interruption later, the persecutor became a preacher. That’s vintage God.

Of course, Ananias was hesitant—who wouldn’t be? From a human angle, this looked reckless. Saul wasn’t just a skeptic; he was dangerous. Acts 9:1 says he was “breathing threats and murder” against the believers. Not exactly Sunday school material! He raided homes, dragged off disciples, and set fear in the hearts of the faithful. By all accounts, he was the early church’s “Public Enemy Number One.”

But God doesn’t recruit based on résumés or reputations or “rap sheets.” He looks beyond the wreckage and sees redemption. He wasn’t alarmed by Saul’s rage—He was ready to redeem it. Saul’s zeal wasn’t wasted; it was repurposed for something holy. That same boldness, that same fire? God aimed it straight into the heart of the mission field.

So here’s the twist for us: If God can use Saul, He can use you.  Your past doesn’t intimidate Him. Your baggage isn’t a dealbreaker—it might be the backdrop for His brightest spotlight. Maybe you feel unworthy, unqualified, or unlikely. Perfect! You’re exactly the kind of person God loves to partner with. He’s in the business of flipping scripts and rewriting futures.

Truth is, if you’re following Jesus, you are living proof of this truth. Your salvation—whether loud and dramatic or quiet and steady—is a miracle of grace. You were dead… but now? You live (Ephesians 2:4–5). That’s the ultimate divine reversal.

May the God who rewrites stories with mercy and power awaken fresh courage in your heart today.
And may your life, like Paul’s, become living proof that no one is too far for God’s love to reach, redeem, and send. 

June 29 — "Divine Dispatch: God’s Perfect Timing"

Today's Reading: Acts 8:26-40

God is the ultimate Dispatcher, setting the stage for life-changing encounters in the most unexpected places. In Acts 8, an Ethiopian official is poring over the words of Isaiah, reading about the “Lamb of God.” But there’s a problem—he doesn’t understand. Who is this “sheep” being led to slaughter? Why didn’t he fight back or even speak up? Confused, the official suddenly hears footsteps approaching his chariot. Enter Philip—dispatched by the Spirit, guided down a lonely desert road—for one purpose: to introduce a seeking heart to Jesus.

Philip doesn’t hesitate. He jumps right in, bridging the gap between Scripture and Savior, making sense of Isaiah 53:7—where Jesus, the sinless Lamb, willingly endured suffering and injustice to bring us peace with God.

This official had just returned from worshiping in Jerusalem, yet his heart remained restless. He was searching for more, longing for truth. He had the right Scripture but needed the right explainer. So, God sent Philip—pulling him from a thriving revival in Samaria—to meet one man in the desert. Why? Because God saw a heart that was ready! And let’s not miss the reminder here: God knows exactly where we are—geographically, emotionally, spiritually—and He moves Heaven and Earth to meet us in our searching.

Ever felt like Scripture just wasn’t clicking? Or like you were stuck in a “desert road” season, unsure why you’re there? Friend, don’t overlook the possibility of a divine setup! This story proves God goes out of His way to reach the forgotten, the outsider, the overlooked. No heart is too far, no desert too dry—He pursues with relentless grace.

If you’re searching, ask Jesus to reveal Himself through His Word. He will! And if you’re following Him, be ready for divine interruptions. That “random” conversation or unexpected detour might be your Philip moment—someone else’s eternity might hinge on your obedience. So keep your heart soft and your feet ready.

May the Lord open your eyes to the Lamb of God in a fresh, personal way. May His Word ignite a fire within you. And may you be willing to go wherever He leads—because every step could be a step toward someone’s salvation. 

June 28 — "Scattered But Not Silenced"

Today's Reading: Acts 8:1-25

Picture yourself stomping out a campfire, expecting to smother the flames. But instead of snuffing them out, you send embers flying in all directions—igniting new fires! That’s exactly what happened in Acts 8. Persecution scattered the early believers, but instead of silencing the Gospel, it shot sparks flying and spread like wildfire. What seemed like a setback became a divine setup—God’s Word reached new hearts and transformed lives.

The early believers, driven from their homes, didn’t retreat in fear—they boldly proclaimed Christ wherever they went. Acts 8:4 says, “those who were scattered went about preaching the word.” This scattering wasn’t random—it was God expanding His kingdom. What looked like chaos was actually His divine strategy.

How did this explosive growth happen? By the scattered believers “preaching” the word. What is remarkable is that “preaching” here doesn’t mean formal sermons—it means everyday conversations. These believers shared Jesus in streets, homes, and marketplaces, turning every moment into a chance to spread hope through the truth of Jesus Christ.

After Acts 8, Christianity expanded beyond Jerusalem into Judea, Samaria, and Gentile regions. Through missionaries like Paul, the Gospel spread across the Roman Empire despite opposition. The early Church developed leadership, foundational doctrines, and resilience against critics and heresies. This growth laid the groundwork for Christianity’s prominence in centuries to come. Historians generally agree that by around AD 200, the Christian population in the Roman Empire had grown from a few dozen disciples to roughly between 1 and 2 million believers!

You may not face physical persecution, but life has a way of scattering us. Maybe it’s a career shift, a strained relationship, or unexpected hardship. The real question is: How will you respond? Will you shrink back, discouraged, or will you let God use your situation for His glory? He never wastes our trials—He repurposes them for His kingdom.

So, what about you? Where has God placed you? Who needs to hear His truth through your life, right here, right now? Don’t let hardship silence you—step boldly into the opportunities God has put before you. Like the believers in Acts, let your everyday conversations be a testimony of grace and truth, no matter where you’ve been scattered.

May the Lord grant you courage to share His Word, no matter where life takes you. May He open your eyes to see challenges as divine opportunities, and may His peace and purpose guide your steps! 

June 27 — "A Glimpse of Heaven That Changes Everything"

Today's Reading: Acts 7:30-60

Stephen, one of the first deacons of the early church, stood before an angry mob, falsely accused, moments away from death. The chaos swirled around him, yet Heaven itself opened before his eyes. And what did he see? Jesus—not seated as He is often described—but standing, ready to receive him. That glimpse of glory didn’t erase his suffering, but oh, how it transformed the way he endured it! When we catch sight of Heaven’s reality, the trials of this life shrink in comparison to the joy set before us.

Have you ever had a moment where God felt overwhelmingly near—so close, so real, that His presence left you speechless? These sacred glimpses aren’t reserved for Biblical heroes like Stephen; they happen to ordinary believers just like us! Whether in worship, in prayer, in Scripture, or even in life’s toughest moments, God reveals His glory, shifting our vision beyond earthly struggles.

Stephen’s story is astonishing, but it’s not just history—it’s a truth for us today. Christ followers still experience moments where Heaven kisses earth—where God’s presence becomes undeniable, lifting our eyes above the weight of this world. These glimpses of glory remind us that Jesus is near, His kingdom is unshakable, and our hope is eternally secure.

We may not witness Heaven splitting open as Stephen did, but we encounter God’s glory in profound ways. Maybe you've been in worship and felt His presence so deeply it brought you to your knees. Or perhaps a verse leapt off the page, speaking straight to your heart as if God Himself whispered it to you. Maybe you've known a peace that defied logic in the middle of a storm, or looked at creation and felt an unexplainable longing for Home. These moments awaken something within us—joy, awe, peace, and a hunger for more of Jesus. They remind us that this world is not our final destination.

Don’t overlook the glimpses of glory God places before you! Chase after His presence—immerse yourself in His Word, worship without hesitation, pray with bold expectation, and open your heart to see Him moving in the ordinary. When trials come, seek His perspective, just as Stephen did. Fix your gaze on Jesus, and let the glimpses He gives you strengthen your faith until that glorious day when you finally see Him face to face.

May the Lord open your eyes to His glory, flood your heart with His presence, and fill you with the joy of knowing He is near. And may every glimpse of Heaven fuel your faith until the day you stand before Him in glorious eternity. 

June 26 — "Seeing God’s Work Before It’s Too Late"

Today's Reading: Acts 7:1-29

Stephen’s speech before the Sanhedrin wasn’t just a history lesson—it was a bold, unfiltered reminder that God’s people have a long-standing habit of resisting His plan. From Abraham’s calling to Moses’ rejection by his own people, Stephen traced a troubling pattern: history keeps repeating itself. Time and again, when God raises up a leader, people fail to recognize it.

Take Moses, for example. He was chosen to rescue Israel, yet his first attempt was met with rejection. Instead of rallying behind him, his own people pushed him away. Fast forward to Jesus—the ultimate Deliverer—sent by God Himself, yet He, too, was rejected.

Stephen drives this point home in Acts 7:25: “Moses supposed that his brothers would understand that God was giving them salvation by his hand, but they did not understand.” Moses stepped in to defend an Israelite who was being mistreated, but instead of gratitude, he was met with rejection. That rejection sent him into the wilderness, delaying Israel’s deliverance.

Stephen’s argument builds to a powerful climax: Just as their ancestors resisted Moses, the people of his day had resisted—and crucified—Jesus, the very Messiah they had been waiting for. He was exposing their hardened hearts, urging them to see that they were standing on the wrong side of God’s plan—just like their forefathers.

Now let’s bring this closer to home: How often do we resist God’s work simply because it doesn’t fit our expectations? Maybe He’s calling us to step out in faith, but fear keeps us frozen. Maybe He’s speaking through someone in our life, but pride stops us from listening. The Israelites failed to recognize Moses as their deliverer, and many missed Jesus as the Messiah. Could we be missing what God is doing today because it doesn’t look the way we expect it to?

Ask God to open your eyes to His work around you. Be willing to listen, obey, and trust—even when it’s uncomfortable. Don’t follow the pattern of resistance that led to rejection. Instead, humble yourself before the Lord, asking Him to soften your heart so that when He speaks, you recognize His voice and follow Him.

May the Lord grant you eyes to see and a heart ready to receive His plans. May you walk in faith, not resisting His calling but embracing His leading. And may you never miss His voice when He speaks. 

June 25 — "Three Traits of a Kingdom Builder"

Today's Reading: Acts 6

In Acts 6, the early church was growing—thriving, expanding, and… running into logistical chaos. Some widows were being overlooked in the daily meal distribution, and the Apostles knew they needed a solution. But this wasn't about plugging gaps with “just anyone.” The Apostles knew the answer wasn’t just finding “any warm body” to fill the role. Service in God’s kingdom isn’t about plugging gaps with whoever happens to be available—it’s about calling and character. They needed men of integrity, Spirit-led strength, and wisdom because even serving tables was a sacred task.

They instructed the church to choose men of good repute, filled with the Holy Spirit, and full of wisdom—three qualities that define faithful, effective service in God’s kingdom. Let’s break them down.

Good Repute: This isn’t just a polished image; it’s about a life marked by integrity and trustworthiness. Reputation matters because it reflects the kind of heart behind the work. These men weren’t just handling food logistics—they were shaping the church’s witness! A solid reputation ensured their leadership would inspire, not undermine.

Filled with the Holy Spirit: Being Spirit-filled isn’t reserved for preaching or miracles—it’s vital for every act of service. The Holy Spirit empowers us to work not with obligation but with worship. Serving tables may have seemed menial, but done in the Spirit’s power, it became a sacred offering of humility, patience, and love.

Full of Wisdom: Wisdom isn’t just knowing things—it’s knowing how to apply them in ways that honor God. Ministry isn't without challenges. Conflicts arise, needs shift, obstacles come. Wisdom enables us to lead well, serve effectively, and handle situations in a way that builds rather than breaks.

Without these traits, ministry suffers. A weak reputation damages trust. Relying on human strength instead of the Spirit leads to burnout and failure. And lack of wisdom? That’s a recipe for self-centered, shortsighted decisions that derail God’s work.

Whether you’re serving in church, at work, or in your home, God calls you to be trustworthy, Spirit-led, and full of wisdom. So today, ask the Holy Spirit to empower you, seek opportunities to display integrity, and pray for wisdom to serve in ways that truly honor Him.

May the Lord fill you with His Spirit, strengthen your character, and grant you wisdom in every step. And may your life reflect His goodness, drawing others closer to Him. 

June 24 — "Are We Standing in God's Way?"

Today's Reading: Acts 5:22-42

Sometimes, the people most confident in their understanding of God are the ones who completely miss Him when He moves. Take Acts 5: the religious leaders—experts in Scripture, guardians of tradition—stood blind as God worked in their midst. Rather than embracing Jesus as the Messiah, they fought against Him. Their resistance prompted warning from one of their own and exposed a hard truth: resisting God only leads to failure.

The Sanhedrin, convinced they were God’s representatives, rejected Jesus at every turn. Even after His resurrection, as miracles unfolded and the Apostles preached with undeniable power, they dug in their heels. But Gamaliel, a well-respected Pharisee, urged caution: If this movement was purely human, it would collapse. But if it is from God? No force on earth can stop it.

History proved him right. The Apostles kept preaching. The Gospel spread like wildfire. And the very leaders who should have guided people to the Messiah found themselves fighting against His mission. It wasn’t the uneducated or the outcasts who missed God’s plan—it was the religious elite, the ones who allegedly “knew” Him best.

This same blindness surfaced again during the Jesus Movement of the 1960s and 1970s. A generation of truth-seeking hippies—long-haired, barefoot, desperate for Jesus—flooded churches. Some churches embraced them with open arms. Others resisted, unwilling to set aside their traditions. What happened? A revival exploded. Thousands came to Christ, a fresh wave of worship was born, and churches that welcomed the movement thrived. Those who resisted? Many faded into irrelevance.

It’s easy to shake our heads at the Sanhedrin, but let’s be honest—could we be just as blind? Do we hold so tightly to our traditions or expectations that we fail to recognize God at work? When He moves in unexpected ways, do we embrace it—or resist it? The truth is, we can be deeply religious and completely out of step with Him. That’s a sobering thought.

Instead of assuming we always see clearly, let’s humbly seek the Lord and ask: Am I walking in step with You and Your work—or am I standing in the way? Lay down pride. Surrender expectations. Ask the Holy Spirit for discernment. When God moves, don’t resist—run with Him! Be a part of what He is doing. After all, if it is of God, you won’t be able to stop Him!

May the Lord open your eyes to His work, tune your ears to His voice, and soften your heart to His leading. May you never resist His movement, but always walk in step with His perfect will. 

June 23 — "Real Truth with a Real God"

Today's Reading: Acts 5:1-21

God knows everything, including our thoughts and motives. Trying to deceive Him? Impossible. Worse, it damages our relationship with Him. Lying to God isn’t just a mistake—it’s a heart issue that exposes a deeper spiritual problem. Scripture makes it clear: God desires truthfulness from His people. Psalm 51:6 declares, “Behold, You delight in truth in the inward being.” That’s more than just words—it’s authenticity at the core. Instead of hiding, He calls us to approach Him with bold sincerity and unwavering truth.

In Acts 5, Peter confronts Ananias and Sapphira—not for keeping money, but for lying about it. Their sin? Hypocrisy. They wanted to seem generous in the eyes of others without truly sacrificing. When they presented their offering, Peter—through the Spirit’s discernment—exposed their deception. They weren’t just deceiving people; they tried to fool the Holy Spirit Himself. That’s dangerous. They treated God as if He could be tricked like men. The result? Immediate judgment. Their rebellion carried serious consequences.

Before we judge them, let’s reflect on our own hearts. We may not blatantly lie to God, but we struggle with dishonesty—through self-deception, hypocrisy, or pretending to trust Him while relying on ourselves. We claim surrender but refuse to let go of control. We confess sin without true repentance. We worship half-heartedly, pray selfishly, and make empty promises. But here’s the hope: God isn’t demanding perfection—He’s inviting honesty. He already knows the truth, so why pretend? When we come clean, we step into His grace, freedom, and deeper intimacy.

What should we do?

✔️ Be honest with God in prayer—He knows everything anyway, so stop hiding!
✔️ Confess sins genuinely, trusting His mercy and grace.
✔️ Yield to the Holy Spirit, letting Him shape you into a person of integrity.
✔️ Reject hypocrisy and embrace authentic living before God and others.

May the Lord fill your heart with truth and free you from the burden of pretense. May He grant you joy in honest fellowship with Him. And may you rest in the peace that comes from walking openly before the One who knows and loves you completely.

June 22 — "Prayer, Power, and Holy Disruption"

 

Today's Reading: Acts 4:23-37

Prayer. It’s where everything begins.

When the early church faced opposition and threats, they didn’t rely on their own strength or strategy. No backup plan. No retreat. Instead, they prayed—fervently, desperately—asking God for courage, power, and boldness to press on. Prayer, at its core, is a surrendering of our own limitations, a recognition that God alone equips us for what He calls us to do. They didn’t ask for safety or an easier road. They asked for boldness—an unwavering determination to proclaim the Gospel, no matter the cost.

And when they prayed? God shook the very ground beneath them. Their comfort zones shattered, their routine disrupted, their hearts awakened. The Holy Spirit rushed in, filling them—not just with peace or guidance—but with supernatural courage. Jesus promised the Spirit as our Helper, our Counselor, our source of power (John 14:26, Acts 1:8). He’s the one who emboldens us, making even the most timid voice ring with conviction and clarity in the face of opposition.

The pattern is clear: Prayer opens the door. The Spirit fills the room. Boldness steps forward.

So when doubt creeps in, when hesitation silences your witness, when fear whispers that you’re not enough—stop. Pray. Ask the Spirit to fill you. Boldness will come. It’s what He does.

Now, imagine praying in the quiet when suddenly, everything around you begins to tremble. The shaking—the holy disruption—is no accident. Just like the early church, God still shakes His people awake. Not always with literal earthquakes, but with divine disruptions that awaken hearts and call believers to deeper faith. He rattles comfort to reignite calling. He stirs hearts to remind us: I am with you. I am empowering you. You are not alone. Just like in the early church, God’s shaking isn’t meant to destroy—it’s meant to awaken, refine, and empower. When life trembles, it’s often a sign that He’s moving!

May the Lord shake your spirit with the fire of His purpose. May His peace flood your soul. And may you go forth, fearless and full, proclaiming His name with boldness!

June 21 — "One Name—One Salvation"

 

Today's Reading: Acts 4:1-22

History is packed with names that command respect—powerful rulers, brilliant thinkers, daring heroes. But when it comes to salvation, only one name reigns supreme: Jesus. Acts 4:12 leaves no room for debate: “And there is salvation in no one else!” This is the bedrock of our faith—Jesus is the one and only way!

The Apostle Peter boldly declared this truth while standing before the very council that had condemned Jesus to death. Filled with the Holy Spirit, he didn’t flinch—he told them outright that their verdict was dead wrong. Salvation is found exclusively in Christ. The very One they rejected has risen and is now the cornerstone of God’s redemptive plan. Peter’s declaration wasn’t a mere opinion; it was divine decree—final and binding.

And when Peter said “under heaven,” he made something crystal clear: every single human being—Jew or Gentile, slave or free, rich or poor—falls under the authority of Christ’s salvation. No exceptions. No loopholes.

We live in a world drowning in spiritual confusion, promoting countless paths to God. But today’s verse cuts through the noise with divine certainty. Salvation isn’t found in good deeds, religious rituals, social activism, escapism, self-effort, science and technology, or moral effort—it’s found in Jesus alone. His name embodies everything He is: Savior, Redeemer, Lord, and King.

So, what does this mean for us? First, it calls us to confidence. If you are in Christ, you have absolute assurance of your salvation! You don’t need to wonder if you’ve done enough—Jesus has done everything. Second, it calls us to urgency. If salvation is only found in Jesus, then those who don’t yet know Him are lost. That truth should stir us to share the Gospel with boldness—just like Peter did.

Don’t stay silent about the greatest Name in heaven and on earth! The world needs to hear the truth, and God has entrusted it to us. Whether through words, actions, or a life reflecting His love, let’s proclaim Jesus as the only way. Stand firm in faith, live boldly, and never, ever be ashamed of the Name above all names.

May the Lord fill you with unwavering confidence in Jesus, the only Savior. May He ignite a holy boldness in your heart to share the gospel without fear. And may His name be ever on your lips, bringing light to those still in darkness.