READ
Acts 13:1-4, 13-15, 42-52
CONSIDER
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.” (Acts 13:2)
Reading Acts reminds us that the Holy Spirit often spoke to the early church. Remarkably, the Spirit’s voice is clear and easy to understand. Here, the Holy Spirit says, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
Amazingly, this is not the first time in the Bible that God has spoken to his people. God speaks to His people continuously. God spoke to Moses through a burning bush. God spoke to Elijah in a still, small voice. (1 Kings 19). God spoke to Samuel, both when he was a boy and a grown man.
The Bible reminds us: God speaks to us.
In the early church, hearing God came out of the context of spiritual practices. As the Acts community spent time worshipping, fasting, and praying together, they encountered the presence of God. This new way of life was not focused on earning salvation through acts of piety. Instead, it was primarily dedicated to experiencing the love of God together. In the process, they experienced transformation and became new people.
Pastor Paul Lam
PRAY
Dear Jesus, I worship you and I love you. Spirit, you are the giver of life. Help me this day to be attentive to your voice in my life and help me to see where you are working. Show me how I can participate in the healing and renewal of creation. Bless the SCBC church family as we seek to listen and discern the direction that you want us to go in. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
DIVING DEEPER
When was the last time you heard from God?
How did He speak to you? Through a sermon, bible passage, prayer, worship, or community group? Or something else?
What is God saying to you now? How is the Spirit of God calling you to participate in His mission?