Devotionals for June 26, 2023
Week THREE of MAKING DISCIPLES is happening on July 11 at. 6:30pm. Sign up today!
READ
Acts 6:1-7
6 But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food.
2 So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, “We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. 3 And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. 4 Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word.”
5 Everyone liked this idea, and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (an earlier convert to the Jewish faith). 6 These seven were presented to the apostles, who prayed for them as they laid their hands on them.
7 So God’s message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too.
REFLECT
All churches have problems. This early church was increasing in size and needs. One great need was the distribution of food to the poor. The apostles chose seven well-respected men full of the holy spirit and wisdom to fill this need. Each person has a vital role to play in the church. As we continue the devotions for this week, we will see how Stephen and Philip, men chosen to help with the distribution of food, were used by God for the crucial expansion of the witness of Jesus.
APPLY
Q: What qualities did the apostles look for in the men to help with the food distribution?
Q: How are you currently serving within the church to help expand God’s kingdom?
Q: How can you inspire others within the church to serve and help play a vital role?
SING
“You Keep on Getting Better” by Maverick City Music
PRAY
"Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy."
You are so good, Lord! Use me Father to help expand Your kingdom. I want to find where I can serve You best. Give me wisdom and direction to find my place in Your plans. Thank you for believing in me and encouraging me. Help me also encourage others. I love you, Lord!
READ
Acts 6:1-7
6 But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food.
2 So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, “We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. 3 And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. 4 Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word.”
5 Everyone liked this idea, and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (an earlier convert to the Jewish faith). 6 These seven were presented to the apostles, who prayed for them as they laid their hands on them.
7 So God’s message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too.
REFLECT
All churches have problems. This early church was increasing in size and needs. One great need was the distribution of food to the poor. The apostles chose seven well-respected men full of the holy spirit and wisdom to fill this need. Each person has a vital role to play in the church. As we continue the devotions for this week, we will see how Stephen and Philip, men chosen to help with the distribution of food, were used by God for the crucial expansion of the witness of Jesus.
APPLY
Q: What qualities did the apostles look for in the men to help with the food distribution?
Q: How are you currently serving within the church to help expand God’s kingdom?
Q: How can you inspire others within the church to serve and help play a vital role?
SING
“You Keep on Getting Better” by Maverick City Music
PRAY
"Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy."
You are so good, Lord! Use me Father to help expand Your kingdom. I want to find where I can serve You best. Give me wisdom and direction to find my place in Your plans. Thank you for believing in me and encouraging me. Help me also encourage others. I love you, Lord!