Daily Devotions

Today’s Bible reading is Acts chapter 13

(Read the entire New Testament in 2014 by reading only one chapter each day)

A missionary is someone who goes somewhere to tell somebody about Jesus Christ. Every believer has been called to be a witness. Someone said, “There are only two kinds of people in the world; missionaries, or those who need one.” The early church accepted its mission of sharing Christ and making disciples. In essence every believer was a missionary. Through fasting and prayer the church at Antioch was led by the Holy Spirit and enabled to advance the Gospel. From Antioch God called Barnabas and Saul to a special work. They were set apart by the Holy Spirit and sent out by the church. It is interesting to note that this came about during an intense time of prayer and fasting. Acts 13:2-3 says, “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.” It is very clear that the early church had a Gospel focus and that this is God’s pattern for His people. Our praying, giving, and going should reflect that we are a missional people. A church should never cut missions because missions is at the heart of God.

Prayer: “Dear Father, how exciting and thrilling it is for us to follow Christ and tell others about Your amazing plan of redemption. Give us a heart to reach the nations. In Jesus name. Amen.”

Randy J. McPheron