Acts 1:8 – T.H.E.M.

Today’s Bible reading is Acts chapter 18

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

God gave gifts unto the church. Ephesians 4 shows that He gave apostles, prophets, evangelists, and pastors as part of the gifts unto the church. People who love and serve Jesus are a gift. Missionaries and Christian leaders are gifts to God’s church. The Apostle Paul was a gift. We are still reaping blessings from his ministry. Those who accompanied Paul were a gift. Aquila and Priscilla assisted Paul and were helpful to the spread of the Gospel. What a blessing their friendship must’ve been to Paul. The early church was on fire for God! But with great success there was also great sacrifice and suffering. When life gets hard and the spiritual battles become intense, a friend in Christ can be a priceless treasure. I have been there, when it gets so hard that you just want to quit. Jesus is with us during those times just as He was with Paul. He also places people in our lives at just the right time to encourage us. God gives gifts to people, but He also gives people as gifts.

Prayer: “Dear Father, thank You for the people You place in our life. Make us a blessing to others. May we be a friend to someone in need today. In Jesus name. Amen.”

Randy J. McPheron

Daily Devotions: May 6, 2014
Today’s Bible reading is Acts chapter 1

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

The last thing Jesus said to His disciples before His ascension was Acts 1:8. He promised to send the Holy Spirit to His church, and through the Spirit we are given power to witness. God’s commission to His church is that we go. The ascension marked the beginning of that commission, and the return of Christ will mark the end. Today, God has opened a door of opportunity for us to share the Gospel with the lost peoples of the world. God is in the saving business, therefore His church ought to be in the soul winning business. Someone once asked the question, “Is there anything better than going to heaven?” Yes, there is something better. It is “taking someone else with you!” The disciples first response to Jesus commission was they started a prayer meeting. Prayer is the starting point of evangelism and the Great Commission. Who have you prayed for today to be saved? Ask God to use you to witness to someone today. Acts 1:8 is for you!

Prayer: “Lord Jesus, we believe You to open hearts and give us opportunities to share Christ with someone today. Give us boldness to witness and a burden for lost people.”

Randy J. McPheron