AnActsDevotional

  Acts 19:11-12 Along with Paul's teachings he performed miracles and evil spirits left people.  It seems to me that we don't acknowledge the spiritual forces at work amongst so much in the western world.  It seems that satan's strategy is to capture our culture through pride, greed and sexual immorality as opposed to demonic possession. This way we don't acknowledge the spiritual battle that is taking place in this world.  We also tend to dismiss miracles as acts of Doctors or medicine so it's no wonder that God doesn't show His power as He did for Paul. Lord Jesus, we want people to acknowledge You.  Show us what we need to do for this to happen and give us the courage to walk by faith not by sight.  Amen

  Acts 19:9-10 When Paul was picked on in the synagogue/church he took his message to a secular place where all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia (about 2 million people)  heard his teachings over the course of 2 years. Lord Jesus, when Your message is disrespected by some audiences help us to find the audiences that are interested in hearing the truth about You.  You have said the harvest is plentiful and You just need the workers so Lord, show us the harvest and guide us into bringing it in.  Amen 

  Acts 19:8 Paul continued to teach in the synagogue arguing persuasively about the Kingdom of God. Lord Jesus, please help us to stand firm in our believes unless they are not founded in Your truths. Amen

  Acts 19:1-7 Paul points out there are two baptisms.  One of repentance, when we confess our sins and turn away from them and one of the Holy Spirit where we accept Christ's offer to become Lord of our lives and He empowers us with His Holy Spirit so that we can produce the fruit  of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,   gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).  In additions He gives us gifts so that we can make a God difference in His very large Kingdom. Lord Jesus we choose to follow You and in doing so we confess we are far from perfect and live in an imperfect world so we ask for You to take control of our lives.  Fill us with Your Holy Spirit so we can grow the fruit of the Spirit in our lives and use the gifts that You have given to us for Your honor and glory. Amen.

  Acts 18:24-28 Apollos was an educated man and wanted to know and share the truth about Jesus. Lord Jesus, help us to search for the truth about who You are and be willing to share that with others.

  Acts 18:18-23 Paul moved around strengthening the disciples and reasoning with Jews in the synagogue.  This time they wanted to hear more yet Paul kept moving.   Lord Jesus, help us to be obedient to You and not get trapped by the attention people give us because of You.  Help us to hear that still small voice and give us the faith and courage to obey it.

  Acts 18:9-17 God spoke to Paul in a dream telling him not to be afraid; that He would protect him ...and he did. Lord Jesus, help us to have the courage to stand for You when You ask us to stand for You.  Amen