Day 20

People will know me from how I walk and live out my faith, and for how I love them.

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Scripture

“And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking with tongues and prophesying….so the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing.” — Acts 19:5-6, 20

Observation

This passage in Acts 19 is sandwiched between Paul’s time at Corinth and the town of Ephesus. We read in verse 8 that what Paul was “speaking boldly” about was the content of what would become the book of Ephesians. God’s word is powerful in our lives when we follow it and apply what he says.

Application

Paul was at Ephesus for over two years, and the word says that “God was performing extraordinary miracles by the hands of Paul” (verse 11). All of that was only possible because the Holy Spirit was applying the word of God “mightily” in Paul’s life. I want people to say of me, what Paul says in Ephesians 1:15 “…having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you and your love for all the saints, …” People will know me from how I walk and live out my faith, and for how I love them. How do people feel they’ve been with me? Are they encouraged, loved, energized, empowered?

Prayer

“Thank you Jesus that you walk with me every day. Your loving-kindness towards me gives me the faith and courage to live for you daily. When I doubt, help me to have courage and belief – faith to trust – that not only is your word mighty in my life, but I can trust you to win the day. Amen.”

Scripture

Get to a place where you can focus and read the daily Scripture passage several times. Take time to read and allow God to speak to you. Write down the one or two verses that stick out. Even consider rewriting the verse(s) in your own words.

Observation

Make a basic observation about the scripture you just read. What stood out? Was something repeated? What is the author trying to communicate? What does the Scripture passage teach you about God? What does it teach you about humanity?

Application

Ask, “What does this verse(s) mean for my life?” How might this verse affect your heart — how you feel? How does this verse challenge your thinking? How does it affect your will, asking, “What changes do I need to make in my life as a result of this passage of Scripture?”

Prayer

Write out a prayer to God. Scripture is God speaking to you, take this moment to speak back. Take a moment to say, “Thank you,” confess to Him what needs to change, or ask for something that is on your heart.