TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE
Please read Acts 13
47 For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, “‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’” 48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed. 49 And the word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region. 50 But the Jews incited the devout women of high standing and the leading men of the city, stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their district. 51 But they shook off the dust from their feet against them and went to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
Acts 13:47–52
DEVOTIONAL
by Elder Chris Beltran
Towards the end of the passage, it was remarked that “the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit” (v. 52). Having joy amid extreme opposition and pressure can only happen with people filled with the Holy Spirit. Often, we see people giving up, deserting the ministry, and focusing on other things. Some developed a heart of bitterness instead of joy because of conflicts. Our being is more important than our doing. Make sure that we are all filled with the Holy Spirit when serving Him or when disputes arise, so we will not easily give up.
Moreover, we must be aware that the enemy will always be there to oppose our God-given mission. We need discernment from God to see which area the enemy is attacking us from and how we can address it. But one thing is sure, the greater the opposition, the greater the work God wants us to accomplish. Do not be discouraged and give up. We are called to be God’s soldiers. And with our Master leading us against the foe, victory is ours. Giving up is what the enemy wants us to do. Remember, God’s work, done in God’s way, will always have God’s provision and strength. Onward, Christian soldiers!
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we humbly come before You, acknowledging the challenges and opposition we face in our faith journey. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, granting us joy and perseverance amidst trials. Help us discern the tactics of the enemy and equip us to stand firm in the face of opposition, knowing that with You leading us, victory is assured. Strengthen us to press on in fulfilling Your mission and never give up. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
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