Head: Know God's Word | Heart: Love God | Hands: Follow God's Way
Read Acts 9-10
Head
In Acts 9-10, we are given examples of what it looks like to be so focused on what we believe is important instead of constantly being guided by the Holy Spirit or God. In Acts 9, Saul was a devoted Jewish believer who followed old Jewish laws and did not believe Jesus was God’s Son. He persecuted Jesus’ followers because he was too focused on what he believed was right instead of what God was teaching him about Jesus and the new way. But God didn’t turn his back on Saul for his terrible actions. Instead, Jesus met Saul and asked him why he was persecuting Him. God took Saul’s misguided faith and showed him what was really important: knowing and trusting Jesus.
In Acts 10, we once again see a story about a devoted Jewish follower of Jesus and how their inability to embrace Gentiles or people who aren’t Jewish. Jesus taught them that Gentiles like Cornelius can also follow Him. Peter thought that anyone who believes in Jesus must belong to the Jewish family and continue to follow old Jewish laws. But once again, God meets Peter in a dream and informs him that the old ways are not necessary now that Jesus has brought us a new way.
Heart
So what is God trying to tell us through Acts 9-10? I believe He is telling us that we need to be obedient to God’s teaching alone. Proverbs 3:5-6 is a really good reminder of what God wants from us. It says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
We need to leave behind our past mistakes and follow after Jesus and share how He has transformed our lives. This is called our testimony. It also means that even when we don’t completely understand people who are different from us, they can still be part of God’s plan for redemption. We need to embrace His plan for everyone and be willing and obedient to carry out His will for others.
Hands
So, how do we become faithful disciples of Jesus? Well, we have some much-needed guidance in the Bible, especially what we have learned in Acts 9-10.
- God uses people who have been less than faithful to Him to further His purpose. So, no matter what you have done, God can still use you to further His kingdom.
- God does not prefer one type of people over others. So, we should never withhold the good news of the gospel from anyone, no matter what, because His salvation is for everyone.
Have a heart for Jesus and be willing to go wherever God sends you, whether or not you understand His purpose or ways.
What can you do today to tell or show others Jesus’ incredible love and the gift of salvation He is offering to everyone who wants to believe?
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we are so thankful for what Jesus did for us on the cross. Help us never to have any prejudices that stop us from telling others about You. Whenever we have gone against Your will or have been stubborn about approaching others for You, please forgive us and help us to be transformed into an encourager and devoted follower of Yours. Thank You for being a forgiving Father and helping us to always be ready to do Your will! In Jesus’ name. Amen