Lord willing, my plan for the next 28 weeks is to go through Acts chronologically with Tara Leigh Cobble and me, because I will be a participant here too. That means that we will read through Acts but inserted will be the relevant letters such as Galatians, Romans…That will give you greater insight into both Acts and the letters. I respect Tara Leigh. To do this you must download an app on your phone. I will tell you step to step how to download the app and what to do on Monday.
I’ve arranged this study so if you have a crazy day or are in other studies, you can do the minimum with no guilt! You could just do your “God Shot” after you read a chapter, and again after you Listen to Tara. Minimal time!
But we also know, as Tara often closes her teaching, “He is where the joy is.” So we can also put into practice the principles we know about slowing down, making observations, and praying through a passage. I’m in this with you. I am in several other studies, but I do also know that as I abide in Him and He abides in me, I will bear much wonderful fruit and experience His presence.
This is such a rich group and truly, we see so much more together.
I feel privileged to be doing this with you!
Sunday: SPYING GOD
The Lord is always with us, but sometimes He makes us very aware of His presence. Last week did you have an answer to prayer, unusual timing or circumstances, help to do His work, Scripture becoming radioactive, or a sense of His presence through creation or fellowship?
To Get Started Follow These Steps (They are pretty easy, but if you have trouble, find someone young!)
- Search for “Bible App by YouVersion” in the App Store (if you don’t already have it).
- Tap “Plans” (bottom menu)
- This is where all reading plans live.
- Search for: “The Bible Recap”
- Look for:
- The Bible Recap (New Testament)
- or The Bible Recap with Tara-Leigh Cobble
- Look for:
- Open the plan
- Tap “Start Plan”
- Customize your start
- Choose
- Then look for “Adjust Plan” or “Start from Day…”
- 👉 Scroll until you find Day 47 in N.T. (Acts 1-3(
- Choose
Tap into that day and follow the directions for each day — It will usually look like this:
- Devotional (Prayer)
- Read the chapters (Usually one a day — and highlight)
- Share one thing you learned
- Watch Tara (almost under 10 minutes)
- Share your “God Shot”
Monday: Beginning Acts
Begin on Day 47 in the New Testament Version and Pray the Prayers in the Devotional
- Read Acts 1 and highlight. Then share one thing that stood out to you and why.
Tuesday: Acts 2
3. Read, highlight, and share what stood out to you. Or just your God shot.
Wednesday: Acts 3
4. Read, highlight, and share what stood out to you and why. Or just your God Shot.
Thursday/Friday: Tara, God Shot
If you haven’t had a young person help you with the app yet, you can do it this way to give you another week. Click below for her on you-tube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2k8whJgqac&list=PLkgWIAVOhHuDDVn7ArHWB78Zix9C1pEZn&index=54
Go back to the devotional and scroll down to see the Bible Recap — should look something like this. On the “Devotional” scroll down and you will see two videos — one is a summary of Acts, and the Other is Tara-Leigh. Watch Tara Leigh.
5. Watch, take any notes, and share your “God Shot.”
Saturday:
6. Any questions you want to ask of your sisters? Or comments on something one shared?
158 comments
My plan is to do this with you!
Had a fun time seeing God through unusual timing and circumstances this week.
I’ve been having interesting conversations with my orthopedist whom I see 3 times a year for “shoulder shots.” I’m guessing he is a Polish Catholic but he told me his adult son has become a strong Christian. I planned to give him a brochure to our church for his son or himself. When I got to the waiting room, my friends Ron and Debbie were there and scheduled to see this doctor right after me! Therefore, after giving my doctor our brochure, I then told him his next patient was someone who came to our church and whose life had been transformed by Christ. I told of Ron
banging on my kitchen counter that what I’d been teaching his wife wasn’t what he had heard in church all his life, and how God turned a grizzly bear into a teddy bear once he understood the difference between religion and the gospel.
My doctor wanted to see that sheet, had heard of it, so I put it to him in the mail!
Pray for Dr. Thomaszewski
!
!
Sunday: SPYING GOD
The Lord is always with us, but sometimes He makes us very aware of His presence. Last week did you have an answer to prayer, unusual timing or circumstances, help to do His work, Scripture becoming radioactive, or a sense of His presence through creation or fellowship?
—on Wednesday evenings we have a small group in our home and we always use “Wednesday’s Word” for our study from the Paul David Tripp App. The sharing in our group was particularly meaningful and supportive of each other with hard things going on in our lives. This past week’s thoughts by Tripp included a poetical collection of thoughts that were especially powerful thoughts and deeply encouraging to me personally. One phrase stood out so strongly for me. He says that “Jesus took names to the Cross”. I just loved how that personalized that truth for me. His thoughts are based on the scripture “I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6).
I copied it here in the format he wrote it. I hope any who read it are blessed as well 💕
The surety of our
salvation
is one of its chief
glories.
Not dependent on human
obedience,
faithfulness,
love.
Its surety rests on the
unchangeable character and
unalterable purpose of God.
God worked before time and
in time,
not to make salvation
generally possible,
but to deliver his redeeming
grace to a community
he had chosen before
time began.
Jesus didn’t suffer,
die,
and rise again,
to purchase save-ability.
No,
Jesus took names to the
cross.
Our salvation is
sure,
because it rests on the firm
foundation of God’s
choice.
The one who chose us
works to bring us to a
knowledge of him,
the conviction of sin,
and the power to
believe.
Yes, we believe,
but our faith is the gift of
God.
The past,
present,
future
of our redemption
is secure.
What was decided in
eternity
can’t be undone in
time.
What wasn’t granted because of our
righteousness
can’t be lost by our
sin.
What was rooted in God’s
faithfulness
can’t be stopped by our
wanderings.
What has been secured by
sovereign grace
can’t be aborted by
temptation’s draw.
What the Father
decreed
can’t be derailed by Satan’s
will.
Your life may seem to be
out of control.
There are moments when
you may feel lost.
You may wonder what God is
doing.
Your weakness may leave
you
discouraged.
Your struggle with sin may
leave you weary.
You may lose sight of
who you are and what you’ve
been given.
You may covet the peace of
others.
You will long to be further
along.
You will be plagued by
doubt.
But your salvation isn’t made
secure by you.
It was secured before time
began,
by the Lord of Heaven and
Earth.
No one can stop his hand
or
question what he has
done.
So let your heart rest,
be grateful and be glad.
The most glorious thing
to ever happen to
you
has been signed,
sealed, and
delivered
by the unstoppable
will
of your loving Redeemer.
Not sure why my post showed up here as a response instead of on its own??🤷🏼♀️
Sometimes it just does weird things.
Great from Tripp!
Thank you, Bev. This helps me have hope for my DIL. My human brain struggles to see the possibility, but with God all things are possible.
Thank you for sharing Bev… so good! Sounds like a wonderful small group you’re a part of!
Dee that is exciting to hear. Praying for Dr. Thomaszewski.
Dee, you set such a good example of how to be a fragrant aroma for God!
Will be praying🙏
How exciting, Dee! Praying for Dr Thomaszewski
I will pray for your Dr.!
Praying for Dr. Thomaszewski! What a name! But God never misses!
Acts 2 is such a famous chapter, I’m asking the Lord to make me aware of new things.
I see the miracle was both corporate, for it happened to all, yet individual for “the tongues of fire came to rest on each of them.”
As we saw in Acts 1,women were included. Joel prophesied that both men and women would prophesy (that makes think of Stott’s belief that women were teaching)
One of my favorite phrases is But God which happens over 40 times in Scripture. Here it is “You…put him to death by nailing himn to the cross. But God raised him from the dead.”
So very many prophecies fulfilled at Pentecost: Joel’s of the pouring out of His Spirit; Psalm 16 of the resurrection, and more.
That 3,000 were baptized and the Lord adding daily to their number- good start for a brand new Church!
Praying you all are figuring out how to watch Tara — Bing has good directions. This is what she wrote Patti:
Patti,
I downloaded the Bible Recap-New Testament. When I got there, I had to swipe to the left and found Day 47, which is June 13. When I got there, I found the devotional and Acts 1, 2, 3. Click on the devotional, and she has instructions there. There are 2 videos there (Book of Acts Summary and day 320 Acts 1-3). Click on the one that says Day 320, etc., and you will see Tara! I hope this makes sense.
I loved and agreed with Tara’s God Shot. I did love as did Chris the reversal from the confusion of languages at Babel to this.
I am always struck by the tremendous change in Peter which must be both the resurrection and him having the Spirit. I want to b emore aware of the Spirit in my daily life. So thankful God gave that to His own. That’s my God Shot.
This is so exciting for me! I love The Bible Recap and Tara Leigh! And yes, I have had many Kisses from the King this week! I do find that many are very subtle and you have to be on the lookout or you’ll miss them. But some are just like explosions of JOY!
How fun to have this joyful Kristy here!
Welcome Kristy😊❤️
Welcome Kristy!❤️🙏
Yes welcome Kristy. 😊
Welcome, Kristy!
Sunday – Spying God
I play the organ in my home church on Sundays. Having spent the winter (since Jan. 5) down south, I’m always alittle nervous that my fingers will have forgotten how to play. I don’t have any way to practice on a piano or organ. Added to that is my limited flexibility in my left arm, due to progressive paing I’ve been experiencing in my left shoulder (already had an xray and made appt with orthopedics). So what does that have to do with spying God?
I can play just fine! I’ve been practicing all week on my piano. Somehow the pain does not bother me as I play. So many other daily activities are not possible, but not playing piano/organ. Thank you Lord! Today is my first Sunday back at church and so many people are looking forward to having live music again (they sin acapella when I’m not there). I didn’t want to disappoint them.
An added bonus is this is how I am able to join in corporate praise, thru my playing. I would miss it if I could not play.
Correction: My RIGHT arm, and I am right-handed.
It must be like riding a bike — you just don’t forget!
How wonderful that you’re able to play with your bad arm…God is good.
I play the guitar and have started getting arthritis in my fingers which makes it difficult…I have had to play less and less.
This is such a wonderful praise, Cheryl! So thankful you can play!
Cheryl, Sounds like your muscle memory is still in good shape👍🏻 I have pianist in my family.
But honestly that is amazing you can play with out pain. Praise God.
Cheryl, God was cheering you on while you played!
Hi Dee, my name is Donna and I’m very interested in this study. I’m looking forward to hearing Tara also. Thank you for offering different bible studies!
Blessings and prayers, Donna
Welcome Donna — I just approved your first comment, so now if you use the same e-mail and name, I won’t have to do that again. Sometimes when a person gets on a different device, I do, but usually not. Love to hear a little about you!
Welcome Donna! 😊❤️
Welcome Donna!🙏❤️
Hi to you Donna 👋 and welcome.
Hi, Donna! Glad to have you join us!
Excited for this, Dee! I am still trying to catch up on last week’s! Whew-it is a lot of chewing especially with John Stott. I appreciate the brain (with my grasp of English) and heart (with my motivations and idols) stretches.
Your grasp of English? You’d never know it wasn’t your first language!
Bing, I agree with the others. I always learn from your posts and your wisdom, and your English is great.
Dee, Patti, and Sharon,
Thank you for your kind words. I do a lot of editing of my sentences until I feel like I am making sense. I often write as I would say it in my language, then translate it in a way I feel it should be expressed here. LOL, I do try my best, and I’m glad this blog has helped me articulate and/or clarify my thoughts. You all have been so kind in asking questions where I need to elaborate.
Bing — I never ever would have guessed. If course English is your second language but it is so good I didn’t even think about it. DUH!
Bing, I think you’ve grasped the English language quite well! I learn so much from you❤️
Bing, your English is amazing. I think because you need to work at it, yours is probably better than mine! I find I”m careless and in a hurry with my words at times. Makes me laugh often to hear my 8 year old learning English! He keeps trying out new phrases he learns. His latest is “Well, that was painful!” He said that to me after someone at church paid him a compliment. lol. I’m trying to help him with context on these new phrases. It can be quite entertaining.
I have had sweet Praises this week! Went in for some yearly tests and one of the techs was ome of my neighbor’s I had not met.
I also attended a conference meeting for Operation Christmas Child. The leaders are all so excellent, humble and committed to children. This ministry is deeper and wider than I ever realized. I love the ladies who are part of it. Thanking God for this connection, because I have a passion for the children of the world in need of Jesus.
I so admire how you are plugging into your new community!
Good to hear Patti. You obviously are integrating well. 💕
I love how you’re getting involved since you moved! Operation Christmas Child is a wonderful ministry…I’ve known ladies who have gone to Boone, NC to help go through the boxes and put them together…it’s quite a set up!
Yes, it is an amazing ministry! Yes, Sharon, they go through the boxes to make sure each child has appropriate items and to make sure each child gets a personal note. The personal note is often what turns them toward the love of Jesus. It is the favorite item in the box for most of the kids. I have done shoeboxes in the past with the school, but I never realized how important that personal note is. When you realize that you’re getting the gospel message to 12 million children in the world, telling them that you love them and Jesus loves him, it becomes powerful. The notes often stay in their family and shared with their family members, so you’re touching many people with each note.
I have been blessed by the other women in this group. They all love the Lord.
Dee, I love your opening. I love that despite all the busyness, you keep up! I will try to do better this week with even a few minutes here. The trouble is I love to spend longer and neglect things I need to get done!! Haha.
1.My sweet spy of God this week is that my husband and I both had the idea to start a new tradition with our newest grandson. We are going to pray a blessing over the newest grandchild at their first Sunday lunch. The idea came to both of us individually and when I brought it up to my husband he got a visible chill down his spine. I asked if he was cold and he said no. Then he explained his way of coming to this same idea. God is working between us. I love that.
2. We are very cautiously optimistic about our son’s hope for his marriage but trusting that even at this late hour, God can work a miracle. I’m very surprised our DIL came to seek forgiveness—Now to see if she follows through. Praying the Lord works in her heart, she submits to his work, and the enemy is overcome.
The same Spirit says the same thing — love what He showed both you and your husband.
I think it is a very good sign your DIL came to you for forgiveness.
And thanks for your encouragement!
Chris, What a lovely tradition. I love how God spoke to both of you individually. Continued prayers for your DIL and son.
I’m going to do Bev’s SOAP method for Acts 1.
Summarize: Luke continues with what happened, for though Jesus is leaving, the beat goes on! The disciples are told to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit, and Jesus ascends into heaven. Peter addresses 120 believers and Matthias is chosen to replace Judas.
Observations:
Before He ascended, Jesus gave many convincing proofs over 40 days.
John baptized with water but they need the baptism of the Spirit.
Jesus will come back in the same way He ascended
The disciples, including the women, were all praying in the upper room in a large house.
Peter quickly emerges as the leader and stays so for half of Acts. Then Paul emerges.
Peter recalled the prophecy about judgment on Judas and the need for another to take his place from psalms.
From the two men proposed, they cast lots (because this was before the Spirit was given) and the lot fell to Matthias.
APPLICATION
in making decisions, ask God for wisdom and wait on Him.
PRAYER:
Father, please help me walk in Your Spirit all through this day, sensitive to the people in my path, and seeking You in how I spend this gift of another day, and ready for Your return. In Jesus Name I pray.
Chris we have an amazing God. I love that when God shows my husband and I the same thing separately and then bring us together on it. It so affirming.
Hopeful with you for your dil.
The Lord is always with us, but sometimes He makes us very aware of His presence. Last week did you have an answer to prayer, unusual timing or circumstances, help to do His work, Scripture becoming radioactive, or a sense of His presence through creation or fellowship?
I am still coming off some of the hardest couple of weeks both at home and work. I was feeling pretty low by the end of the week. I was scheduled to sing with the worship team at church. The sermon was about Jesus being tested in the desert and how we are tested in our lives. I felt like both the songs I sung and the sermon were just for me. He planned it that way I’m sure ❤️.
God is so good. When we are tested, He brings us hope. Thank you for sharing this, Laura. I know you have had a ton on your plate recently. Praying for God’s wisdom and direction for you.
❤️
I love Tara-Leigh! I am reading the Bible in a year with her! So, I’m in Chronicles and we will be covering Acts. Should be interesting! I will do one as I wake up and then the other at lunch or bedtime. I am like you Dee; I do lots of Bible studies throughout the day.
Welcome newbies! Here we go…
1. Read Acts 1 and highlight. Then share one thing that stood out to you and why.
There were several things that stood out to me, the coming baptism, not with water, but with the Holy Spirit, and it is not for you to know the times which the Father has fixed by His own authority, the women prayer together with the men..about 120 persons. These are all important in the history of spreading the gospel. One thing I had not really thought about previously was that the person selected to replace Judas, “must become a witness of the resurrection.” This would give all the disciples credibility as witnesses.
That was a GREAT thing to see I missed: “must be a witness to the resurrection!”
Monday: Beginning Acts
Begin on Day 47 in the New Testament Version and Pray the Prayers in the Devotional
Read Acts 1 and highlight. Then share one thing that stood out to you and why.
—Luke opens his writings reminding his readers that Jesus after the resurrection spent his last 40 days on earth proving in many ways to the apostles that He was actually alive bodily. He had truly been resurrected from the dead. Then he relates that Jesus instructed them to be witnesses of his resurrection. And as they replaced Judas the betrayer and picked a new disciple Peter specifically says “Whoever is chosen will join us as a witness of Jesus’s resurrection.”
I think this is important because all of Christianity hangs on the very truth that Jesus rose from the dead bodily and is still alive today and will return bodily to earth.
You saw it too, Bev!
Monday – Acts 1
So much is contained in this chapter, it almost felt like being on fast-forward! I’ll mention only two of the many things that stood out to me. 1. The apostles were still looking for the restoration of the kingdom of Israel. The apostles still had a limited view and probably never imagined in their wildest dreams what was going to happen. 2. The mention of Mary, the mother of Jesus. I can just see her gathering with other believers. She is not named anywhere after this, but I can imagine her serving and helping in the early church.
That’s so good about Mary, the mother of Jesus!
Not a great copy, but here is a Pentecost piece our group did one year. Start at 1 minute, as I do a “spiel” at the beginning 🤭! I hope it opens for you. let me know if not.
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18bwx3sJoj/
I could not get it to open. The dance photo was lovely!
Thank Patti. I’ll try a different way.
Laura — fun to watch the women dancing with the flames — and Peter coming out to speak.
Can you view the link? I can’t figure how to download the video and create a link for everyone to see. I could post it in the FB prayer group if people are on that.
I don’t know why the link worked for me and not for some others. I’m sorry!
I got the actual video!
https://share.icloud.com/photos/09beRVf3Z2hzKpxCzrejwXIhg
Just an FYI….when we speak, we actually are speaking different languages. We are saying “in the beginning God created the heavens and Earth.” I always had German, but we even had Swedish, Hebrew, Spanish, Japanese, and others!
Laura, what a powerful dance! I have always enjoyed this liturgical sort of dance. My daughter once took lessons for this. She didn’t stay with it, but it was an interesting way to hear the scripture in a new way. It comes alive in a way that the spoken word doesn’t allow. Thank you for sharing.
Chris, I danced ballet, tap, jazz, and other forms of dance prior to learning about liturgical dance. When I began dancing for God I knew that my dance mattered. I’m sure someone out there has been touched and I am glad I have done it all these years. My dance was finally meaningful. Just as we teachers want to touch each student with their particular learning style, I believe that pastors and leaders should touch their “students” the way they learn too. Thanks for watching!
1. Read Acts 1 and highlight. Then share one thing that stood out to you and why.
I never realized Luke was the author of Acts, duh.
I love Acts 1:5 where Jesus is quoted, “John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Then, they were!! On Pentecost when the roaring of the wind and “flames, or tongues of fire” settled on them. So perfect. They didn’t know about the Holy Spirit until then. I never really thought of Pentecost as a “baptism.”
Sunday: SPYING GOD
The Lord is always with us, but sometimes He makes us very aware of His presence. Last week, did you have an answer to prayer, unusual timing or circumstances, help to do His work, Scripture becoming radioactive, or a sense of His presence through creation or fellowship?
So true, Dee: …sometimes He makes us very aware of His presence. I spied God in leading Richard and me to the very people who could help us find an old membership book at church. We have lost a key to a very old file that we thought must contain what we were looking for. A handy mechanical man in our church used his drill. Come to find out, after a long drilling, we have discovered that the file drawer is fireproof and the drill had to go past several thicknesses to finally undo the lock! And what do you know? The book was on top of very old church documents! I cried tears of gratitude for such a God who knows every detail of His children’s needs. The story behind the “looking” is for the books, and it will take me several paragraphs to share. Sufficient it is to say that God is wonderful!
Love this God Hunt, Bing!
Now that i’m participating with you and I see some of the quirks in the Platform I buy — but not sure I can fix them. For example I wrote this and it appeared in the middle instead of the end — but I am trying again to put it at the end. Gives me sympathy at least for your frustrations. But I’m loving doing it with you.
Acts 2 is such a famous chapter, I’m asking the Lord to make me aware of new things.
I see the miracle was both corporate, for it happened to all, yet individual for “the tongues of fire came to rest on each of them.”
As we saw in Acts 1,women were included. Joel prophesied that both men and women would prophesy (that makes think of Stott’s belief that women were teaching)
One of my favorite phrases is But God which happens over 40 times in Scripture. Here it is “You…put him to death by nailing himn to the cross. But God raised him from the dead.”
So very many prophecies fulfilled at Pentecost: Joel’s of the pouring out of His Spirit; Psalm 16 of the resurrection, and more.
That 3,000 were baptized and the Lord adding daily to their number- good start for a brand new Church!
It is frustrating when things show up in the wrong places, Dee. (yet it is all good)🥰 Thank you for pointing out “But God”. I am going to mark those in my Bible, as I find them! But God raised him from the dead.”
Sorry for the formatting issues. But we all get it and are hanging with you. 🥴
Your God hunt gave me good chills, Bing. Only God.
Bing, So neat to hear about your spying God story. God is wonderful!!
3. Read, highlight, and share what stood out to you. Or just your God shot.
The disciples were all together in one place. It must have been a large area, for many observed what took place.
There was sound from the rushing wind and tongues of fire that rested on each of the disciples. The sound drew a crowd, so it must have been loud. Love that they could hear and see these things.
The Holy Spirit gifted the disciples the ability to speak, so that each listening person, heard in his own language. I don’t think I will ever be able to total comprehend this.
Peter spoke to the crowd the words of the prophet, Joel, which was being fulfilled. Then he spoke the words of David, prophesying Jesus: “ Therefore let all the house of Israel know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Christ -this Jesus whom you crucified.”
About three thousand believed and followed the disciples. Many sold all their property and possessions, sharing with those in need. Many more became believers daily. This was the beginning of the mission, that spread the Word of God throughout the world, and continues to do so today.
God shot: The Holy Spirit is the Advocate Jesus spoke of sending:John 14:25 -27 “All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world give. do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Tuesday – Acts 2
I had prayed that the Lord would give me fresh eyes as I read this morning, and I could almost imagine myself being there. Just the immense POWER of the Holy Spirit as He propels the apostles is breathtaking. Ordinary men who became EXTRAORDINARY that day. Men who had been keeping a low profile now taking center stage, and then Peter stands forth and starts to speak to the Jews/proselytes from all parts of the known world. Devout men who had been in Jerusalem since Passover that had probably seen or heard about the crucifixion of Jesus. Peter preaching a POWERFUL message that included OT scripture being explained and fulfilled that day. Men being CONVICTED by the Holy Spirit and drawn to Jesus as true Messiah.
For me, the sheer POWER of the Holy Spirit is what stood out. The disciples/apostles were INSTRUMENTS through which the Holy Spirit moved.
Cheryl, Like you in considering this passage I just had a greater wonder of what was taking place there and as you said it had to be breathtaking.
I like your summary, Cheryl. Thanks for sharing.
Love your sense of being there!
3. Read, highlight, and share what stood out to you. Or just your God shot.
Of course this scripture resonates with me because I have danced it so many times! I love it all! It’s so wild how they could all understand each other even though they didn’t know each other’s languages.
I have always wondered why all throughout the Bible the “right” hand of God is referred to (randomly at times). It dawned on me a while ago that Jesus sits at the right hand of God, so the right hand refers to Jesus. I am always looking for these passages to confirm my thoughts, and here is one today!
“For David himself never ascended into heaven, yet he said, ‘The LORD said to my Lord, “Sit in the place of honor at my right hand until I humble your enemies, making them a footstool under your feet.”’”
Acts of the Apostles 2:34-35 NLT
It’s also interesting that anyone today sitting at the right hand of the host/hostess at a dinner is in an honored position. I assume that was a tradition inspired by what you pointed out, Laura.
True, true!
Oh, so perceptive, Laura! I never thought of that! Thank you!
Tuesday: Acts 2
3. Read, highlight, and share what stood out to you. Or just your God shot.
—Chapter 2 is so rich with information about the experience of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit was given to those early Jewish believers and over 3,000 of them believed what Peter said and were baptized and added to the church. I felt like I was highlighting verse after verse that stood out to me.
Peter makes a clear and powerful case to the listeners who were hearing and observing this phenomenon of the powerful noise of rushing wind and the sign of tongues of fire above their heads. They observed and experienced that they were hearing ordinary people from Galilee speak in their own languages. Peter’s strong message was what God had done in raising Jesus from the dead and they had seen it themselves and to let these people know for certain that God made Jesus whom they crucified to be both Lord and Messiah. He backed his preaching up with the Scriptures. It was not hearsay but was being fulfilled right before their eyes.
I feel like familiarity with this passage has caused me to gloss over this event recorded for us here. Perhaps partly because I can’t relate anything in my life to it. I have heard of and read about great revivals through the ages but I am not convinced anything has ever compared to that day of the great and amazing time when Jesus poured out the Holy Spirit and the Church, the Bride of Christ was began.
Sunday: SPYING GOD
The Lord is always with us, but sometimes He makes us very aware of His presence. Last week did you have an answer to prayer, unusual timing or circumstances, help to do His work, Scripture becoming radioactive, or a sense of His presence through creation or fellowship?
God sure has a way of showing me my shortcomings and what I need to work on in my life. Several weeks ago my sister fell and broke her patellar. Thankfully she didn’t need surgery and it has healed quite amazingly! She will be starting PT and is able to slowly bear weight on it. Anyway, what God showed me is my lack of a servants heart in taking care of her…He had to change my attitude and He has…my idol of control reared its ugly head. God answered prayer in that she has wonderful neighbors who do all the watering of her yard and get her mail…a real life saver for me! I’m so thankful for God’s grace and love in how He works in my life.
Sharon, glad to hear about your sister’s recovery. And what you are learning about having a servant’s heart.
So thankful for your sister’s recovery, Sharon. Life is full of learning curves for all of us; thank you for your sweet humility and grace!
Sharon — I can only imagine how relieved you are!
Sharon, I certainly identify with you. But love how God is so faithful in spite of us.
Monday: Beginning Acts
Begin on Day 47 in the New Testament Version and Pray the Prayers in the Devotional
Read Acts 1 and highlight. Then share one thing that stood out to you and why.
I am going to try Bev’s SOAP, too!
Summary: Jesus gave instructions to His disciples who were on the hill called Mount Olives before He was taken up to heaven. The disciples, along with the women, Mary, Jesus’ mother, and His brothers, went to Jerusalem and gathered together. There were 120 of them. Those present were led by Peter to find someone to take the place of Judas Iscariot. There were 2 nominations, Joseph (Barsabbas or Justus) and Matthias. The latter was chosen by lot and added to the eleven apostles.
Observation:
1. I wondered what Luke was referring to when he said, “In my former book…” Was he referring to the book of Luke?
2. Each of the apostles was mentioned, and I was reminded of another Judas on the list. (Judas, son of James). It is hard for me to think of the name without a negative connotation to it.
3. V.18 mentioned the payment Judas received for betraying Jesus, buying a field interesting to read in a commentary that Matthew wrote about the priests’ purchase, and Luke said Judas bought the field and attributed it to contextual differences. Hmmmm…hermeneutics?)
4. Peter showing leadership.
5. Luke specifically mentioned Mary, the mother of Jesus. He has picked up Jesus way of treating women.
6. The choosing of Matthias was done by lot. (cultural?)
Application:
How would I feel if I were either Joseph or Matthias? If I were not chosen, how would I respond? If I were chosen, how would I respond? That I may show humility and gratitude for where God places me.
Prayer:
Lord, you went up to heaven after your resurrection, but you did not leave the world without men and women who would carry your name, the good news of Jesus. You empowered them by the Spirit, used them far beyond their capacities and personalities. You can do the same for us, undeserving and weak though we may be. May we depend on the Spirit to take the good news to where you bring us.
Your application was something I’d not considered before, Bing. Being selected as a possible choice alone would have been a great honor, but also the attached responsibility might have been somewhat daunting. I imagine this whole process was covered in prayer and took time.
Just want to say the SOAP method of study was not my idea but it sure has been a blessing for me since I started using it in my own personal study time. 😊
Bing, Your application questions and thoughts are so good.
I enjoy the SOAP method you and Dee used, Bing. There is a lot to ponder in these words. How did Barsabbas feel? The choosing by lots must have made them feel that God did the choosing.
Tuesday: Acts 2
1. Read, highlight, and share what stood out to you. Or just your God shot.
I highlighted verses:
v. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit
v. 13 Some, however, made fun of them and said, “They had had too much wine.” Amazing to read how people respond to the power of the Spirit. Do I respond similarly?
v. 15 “They are not drunk; it is only 9 in the morning.” (a funny one, Duh!)
16-21 Peter’s boldness in sharing about Joel’s prophecy; David’s words in verses 25-28, 34
v. 37, they were cut to the heart
38-39 call for repentance and the promise to extend to them and their children and those who are far off, for all the Lord will call. (He included me!)
v. 41, three thousand were added
v. 42 the first “organized” church 42-45 4 things they did diligently: teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, prayer
My God shot: God, the Holy Spirit, was needed for this particular time to empower the first group of Christians. I wonder what it would have been like to be one of the three thousand who were added to their number. God does impossible math. (Dallas Jenkins of The Chosen)
Monday: Beginning Acts
Begin on Day 47 in the New Testament Version and Pray the Prayers in the Devotional
Read Acts 1 and highlight. Then share one thing that stood out to you and why. Summary: The Holy Spirit is promised. The Ascension happens. Matthias is chosen to replace Judas. Observations: Jesus gave many proofs of his resurrection over 40 days as Luke reminds them of the promise of the Holy Spirit. As Jesus ascends into heaven, the angels come to tell them this is expected and should not be their focus. In other words, get to work. I love the picture of them all gathered in the upper room devoting themselves to prayer. I didn’t remember that the Psalms foretold of Judas betrayal and replacement in the apostles. The qualifications for the replacement were one who had accompanied them from the baptism of John until when Jesus was taken from them-a witness to the resurrection. They sought the Lord’s choice of two men by casting lots. Application: We have work to do here. We have been given the proofs and guided by his word and the Spirit we, too, should be engaged in ministry. Today we go to the visitation for our friends whose son took his life last week. With the story of Judas so fresh, it brings the grief new meaning. When this happens, don’t we wonder at the depth of despair in this world. The grief of losing a loved one is so great, but this grief of one who takes his own life is greater.
That is amazing how Judas suicide the replacement were prophesied.
Chris, I have a first cousin whose only son committed suicide in January. My cousin wrote a piece on FB noting it had been 100 days since his son’s death and he detailed the great death of his grief and pain. It was hard to read but I took note of the fact he remembers very little in the early days of shock except those people who came and just sat quietly. Your presence will bless your friends far more than words. They are dealing with deep grief and confusion. It is good for you to just go be with them.
Thank you for your wise words Bev.
Chris, our church had the privilege to host a meal for a family who lost their dad to suicide. He was only 58. His wife and kids are members of our church, but have not attended for a while for reasons we don’t know about. They were active members before we came. When we heard the news, I reached out to his wife and daughter, and thankfully, they responded. I offered help for any need. A few days before the celebration of life service, the daughter asked if we could host lunch for the family only. I readily jumped at the opportunity. We had 50 of them come. Monday is a busy day for many, but three women came to help me in the kitchen. The main meal was catered, and we provided the desserts and drinks. We were there for them, not many words were exchanged, but I felt very blessed with how the Lord worked things out.
What a beautiful gift to that family. We just came from the visitation and that is exactly what we did is offer to help. They have a lot of offers from a great community. I got a couple good hugs in and said a prayer.
Monday:
Prayer: Lord, we have been given a great task, which you have planned. It is to witness to the ends of the earth of your greatness. Do I even comprehend all that you are? How do I begin to share? Lord give me your words and wisdom. Show me who you would have me be a witness to. As the little children in my life ask hard questions, give me the words. One asked me yesterday, “Why did they kill Jesus? Did he really shed his blood on the cross? What did that look like?” Oh, Lord, did I answer that in the best way? Why did they kill you? I often feel so inadequate. Give me your words.
I downloaded the app and found the study, but when I press start it does nothing. I’m checking with my young person today. 👵🏻
Praying you get help from your young person!
Dee on Acts 3. I’ve always loved and can picture: WALKING AND LEAPING AND PRAISING GOD!
Peter is so quick to give glory to God and to repeat his refrain of “you killed the Author of Life (great name for Jesus) the one who gave this man perfect health in the presence of all.
I also love REPENT THEREFORE, AND TURN BACK, THAT YOUR SINS MAY BE BLOTTED OUT, SO THAT TIMES OF REFRESHING MAY COME FROM THEPRESENCE OF THE LORD.
Application: Idolatry and sin are not friends, but true turning from them leads to times of refreshing from the Spirit of God!
Wednesday: Acts 3
4. Read, highlight, and share what stood out to you and why. Or just your God Shot.
Chapter 3 is so full of stuff that stands out and is noteworthy it is hard to single out something.
But every time I read about the healing of this particular man it always fascinates me. I have a pretty clear picture of what the lame man’s legs looked like. One of my granddaughters Aerilyn was born with spina bifida. Part of her deformity is that her lower legs and feet are not at all developed. She does not have the normal development of muscles and tendons and her feet turn out awkwardly. They are under sized and there is nothing that can be done to correct or bring them to a normal state. She has no feeling in her feet and lower legs because of the nerves not being normal from her spina bifida condition. She has had physical therapy since she was a toddler but even that cannot bring any kind of strength to her lower legs, ankles and feet. It helps her in other ways. She wears special boots to support her legs and is able to walk but she has a very abnormal and awkward way of walking. The wear and tear on her joints will probably eventually cause her to use a wheelchair full time. She uses one now for long distances. All that to say I can see pretty clearly how this mans legs may have looked and how miraculous his healing really was. His healing would have changed his physical legs in an unbelievable way. Someone like him would have been an acceptable beggar taking his regular spot outside of the temple where the foot traffic was heavy with many people. Giving alms to people like him was considered the right and benevolent thing to do. It indicates he was well known by the regular attenders on their way to the temple. It is an incredibly beautiful and amazing thing when God healed this man and the result gave Peter the wonderful opportunity to share the good news of Jesus to many people and brought great glory to God. I am in awe of what God did in this account. Aerilyn is 12 years old and I don’t know how God intends to use her life’s story to glorify Himself but I delight in the thought that some day there will be a special joy when she receives her glorified body in heaven and she will be able to walk and run freely on whole and normal legs and God will be greatly delighted and glorified. The joy will be sweet
A promise for AERILYN. For my daughter Beth to have her arm back! For soooo many. WALKING AND LEAPING AND PRAISING GOD!
Oh Bev, Thank you for sharing this about precious Aerilyn. It does indeed add a depth to the miracle in this chapter.
Oh, wow, Bev! I love the story of Aerilyn. ” Aerilyn is 12 years old and I don’t know how God intends to use her life’s story to glorify Himself but I delight in the thought that some day there will be a special joy when she receives her glorified body in heaven and she will be able to walk and run freely on whole and normal legs and God will be greatly delighted and glorified.”
Bev, you paint a beautiful picture of your granddaughter with a challenging health condition. What a blessing you must be to her and her parents.
I agree with the others, Bev. Thank you for sharing this story of your sweet granddaughter. Having a grandmother of such strong faith will always be a huge blessing of strength for Aerilyn and her family.
Oh Bev, Aerilyn in heaven, with our Lord, walking, leaping, running joyfully is a wonderful thing to imagine!
Wednesday – Acts 3
The verse that stood out to me the most is vs. 17, And now, brethren, I know that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers. It echoed the words of Jesus on the cross, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Though everything that had happened was predetermined by God, that Christ would suffer, the people still bore responsibility and needed to repent (not just be sorrowful). The Holy Spirit then, through Peter, opens the scriptures and connects the OT prophecies to Jesus. This reminded me of Jesus on the Emmaus road.
It almost feels like the miracle of healing was the precursor/opening act, setting the stage for Peter’s message, drawing people’s attention. This wasn’t Peter’s design when he spoke with the lame man, but he didn’t hesiitate to speak when a crowd gathered around him, John, and the lame man. As in chapter two, the Holy Spirit is present in POWER.
I love that hope of grace in that phrase too.
Some sweet notes that came to my email this morning. Tara Leigh Cobble’s Bible Recap for Kids was awarded the ECPA Christian Book of the Year! So good to see another tool for our kids to read Scriptures and to “know” Tara-Leigh here. She does incredible work. Thank you, Dee, for introducing her to us.
Bing, I just got that email, too. Thank you for introducing her to our group. I am enjoying her so much. A good book for grandkids.
That’s great news!
Monday: Beginning Acts
1. Read Acts 1 and highlight. Then share one thing that stood out to you and why.
Written by Luke to Theophilus.
After Jesus had suffered and died, He appeared to the disciples for 40 days.
Talked to them about the Kingdom God.
Commanded them not to leave Jerusalem until the Father sent the gift He promised them.
He told them they would be baptized with the Holy Spirit rather than with water as John the Baptist did.
They kept asking Him, has the time come for You to free Israel and restore our kingdom? He responded that the Father alone has the authority to set dates and times.
They would receive power when the Holy Spirit would come upon them. Then they would be witnesses, telling people about Him everywhere…to the ends of the earth.
Jesus was taken up in a cloud to heaven.
Two white-robed men told them that Jesus would someday return from heaven in the same way they saw Him go.
They returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives.
All the disciples went to a room upstairs where they met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary (Jesus’ mother), several other women, and the brothers of Jesus.
120 believers were gathered together when Peter stood up to address them.
Peter spoke of fulfilled scripture about Judas which was predicted long ago by the Holy Spirit, speaking through King David (Psalms).
It told of letting someone else taking Judas’s position.
Their choice of replacement was from the men who were with them the entire time they traveled with the Lord Jesus…from the time He was baptized until the day He was taken from us.
Whoever is chosen will join them as witnesses of Jesus’ resurrection.
Nominated Barsabbas (known as Justus) and Matthias.
They asked the Lord to show them which of these two to chose as He knows every heart.
They cast lots and Matthias was selected to become an apostle with the other 11.
What stood out to me among many things was that Jesus ascended to heaven while on the Mount of Olives and that is where He will return someday. Acts 1:11-12
I love that Jesus will return to where He ascended to Heaven, Sharon… on the Mount of Olives.
What a glorious hope we have of the return of Jesus. I firmly believe it is wrong to set any kind of dates concerning the return of Jesus but on the other hand it would seem that time is short for old planet earth and the world as it is and it is good and wise to live in the reality of that wonderful hope. Even so Come Quickly Lord Jesus!
Sharon — I love you made all those observations.
Wednesday: Acts 3
1. Read, highlight, and share what stood out to you and why. Or just your God Shot.
I am often like the lame beggar, thinking the answer to my problem is what the world can offer. In this case, money was what the beggar was expecting. I find it revealing that he was not even looking for a cure for his lameness anymore. Why was he begging for money?
What other things do we look for to meet our needs? Peter had the answer-Jesus alone.
I could just picture the lame man jumping, walking, and praising God! I would be, too, if I were lame from birth and now healed! We have a lady here in town who had an aneurysm that almost took her life. The doctor who saw her after surgery remarked how she was a miracle and was not expected to live. The doctor said, “Your God must have heard your prayers and really loves you!” Our friend, Dawn, continually has praise on her lips whenever I see her.
My God Shot: He meets us in “gates” called Beautiful! Everything is beautiful in His time. Ecclesiastes 3:11 He turns our ashes into beauty. Isaiah 61:3
4. Read, highlight, and share what stood out to you and why. Or just your God Shot.
The lame man was carried to the temple every day, to begged for alms. What a huge blessing (and surprise ) he had, when Peter and John healed him. A gift far greater than good or silver! A new life. The Holy Spirit had come upon the disciples. As Acts 1:7-8 reminds them of the Words of Jesus: “you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you…”
It gives me chills to think of how they must have felt with the rushing wind, tongues of fire….I cannot imagine…and now the receiving of the Holy Spirit that Jesus spoke about, but they could not fully imagine. Their commit seems to change dramatically ~ God’s Word truly becomes living water to them.
The man who was healed was walking and leaping and praising! And so many people observed it! They must have seen him at the temple day after day for all these years. We can see the true power ofd God’s Word that none could understand when Jesus first spoke of it… because of course nobody knew what the Holy Spirit really meant until it actually arrived.
Just imagine what it will be like when Jesus returns, as He said He would. I hear about it, but I still cannot actually picture it in my head!
It’s like the disciples finally get what they could not quite get, even when they were with Jesus and even when He was crucified. Yet, the Resurrection and the arrival of the Holy Spirit, brought the Words of Jesus to life in a new way!
Yes, Patti, exactly, “It’s like the disciples finally get what they could not quite get, even when they were with Jesus and even when He was crucified. Yet, the Resurrection and the arrival of the Holy Spirit, brought the Words of Jesus to life in a new way!”
4. Read, highlight, and share what stood out to you and why. Or just your God Shot.
I think that it’s incredible that Peter and John could heal this man. How long did they have the power of Jesus to do these things? I know Jesus gave them the ability, but did it last forever? We are commissioned to tell others about Jesus and His mighty ways, but we aren’t given this power. Do we even know much more about the disciples and their ability to perform miracles?
I do think they had extraordinary power as it was the beginning of the Church. Yet I also find it interesting that more miracle happen in poor countries. My eye-doctor friend experienced two blind people being healed when he was serving in Honduras — but never in America, though he always prays for it.
Laura, I often wonder about all the things they did, that are not written. The Word traveled person to person, not like our crazy instant news today, so there must be many stories will will not hear until we are in eternity. It is hard to fathoms all the miracles got has done. I wonder if more miracles happen in poor countries, because they don’t have the education and resources that more sophisticated cultures have. Only God.
Thursday: Tara
I had never heard that Theophilus means one who loves God — so could mean all of us.
That they are still looking for political take-over.
Smiled at In L A and all of California in the US and the whole world.
Acts 1:12 “a Sabbath’s day journey.” laughed out loud when she said as long as two CVS receipts!
I didn’t know you could have a device in your ears that will translate into your language as they speak!
How do you baptize 3,000 people — 125 ritual purification baths — perfect setting.
Lame man’s healing is launchpad for sermon. All the Scripture in Peter’s sermon.
With Dee’s permission, I am recommending this movie, which is in theatres around the country for one week. It is based on The God Hypothesis by Dr. Stephen Meyer. It is going to be so excellent! It’s done by Dr. Stephen Meyer, is head of The Center for Science and Culture,(The Discovery Institute) in Seattle. It is on Creation, Intelligent Design. It is done in a very excellent scientific way with Dr. Stephen Meyer, John Lennox, Dr. James Tour, David Berlinski, all internationally known top scientists and mathematicians…and more. (Lee Strobel too)
Great for new believers. If you go to their website, there is supposed to be a way that you can do it live stream for your church. ( though I think you have to charge for tickets). If you’re interested, Kelley Unger is the contact at The Discovery Institute. Her work number is 206 292 0401. I just spoke with her on the phone and she can walk you through how to find out about the live stream. It’s such a good outreach tool.
It demonstrates how Darwin’s theory has been disproven. It would be really a great movie for new believers and it mostly talks about Intelloigent Design so it doesn’t go into Jesus, although Stephen Meyer is a born-again Christian. Kelley Unger and I went to the same church for many years. Stephen Meyer’s children attended the school, where my husband and I worked for 19 years. They are a lovely family.
The website is: The Center for Science and Culture….and The Discovery Institute.
Thank you for this, Patti. Would this also be good as a witness for unbelievers? What age group is it suited for? Do you know what week its available? I’ll check back later today. This would be amazing to put together.
It started in Theaters yesterday… as far as I know it’s only running for a week, but there are ways to rent it for churches. I don’t know the details. If you’re interested, Kelley Unger’s number is 206 292 0401. Kelley is very sweet, she is a believer and she can tell you more about live-streaming and where to see it. I have seen some of the trailers and it looks fantastic, especially for people who are kind of on the edge of believing because do you think that Stephen Meyer gives his testimony in it. She is on Pacific Daylight time. I think she’s out of the office on Friday, but I’m not sure.
Go back to the devotional and scroll down to see the Bible Recap — should look something like this. On the “Devotonal” scroll down and you will see two videos — one is a summary of Acts, and the Other is Tara-Leigh. Watch Tara Leigh…
I’m having trouble with this app on my phone…. I wonder if I downloaded the wrong thing
Patti,
I downloaded the Bible Recap-New Testament. When I got there, I had to swipe to the left and found Day 47, which is June 13. When I got there, I found the devotional and Acts 1, 2, 3. Click on the devotional, and she has instructions there. There are 2 videos there (Book of Acts Summary and day 320 Acts 1-3). Click on the one that says Day 320, etc., and you will see Tara! I hope this makes sense.
Thank you, Bing. 🥰I did get that. I thought there was a second video that just said Tara-Leigh.
Go back to the devotional and scroll down to see the Bible Recap — should look something like this. On the “Devotonal” scroll down and you will see two videos — one is a summary of Acts, and the Other is Tara-Leigh. Watch Tara Leigh. I could not get the one titled Tara-Leigh, but I love some of her other nuggets of wisdom:
The beggar asked for money, He was healed.
Peter has come alive in his preaching of God’s Word in a powerful way.
You cannot feed the sheep without food (scripture).
God’s plans for us are never what or the way we imagine. His way is always better! It is humbling to watch Jesus work in our lives.
Holy indoor tornado; Fire holograms; Language convention!
God gives us a puzzle piece and we use it under a wobbly table leg.
‘The Jesus who surprises!” Best ideas and kindest heart! We are loved eternally!
Friday:
I did get my young person to help me and I just finished the devotional by Tara Leigh. I never understood the coming of the Holy Spirit the way she describes as an un-doing of the Tower of Babel. This is what stood out to me. I’m excited to get into more of the study.
Our small group met last night. I am excited that we have decided to tackle a 10 week discipleship course called Freedom in Christ by Neil T. Anderson and Steve Goss. I’m eagerly looking forward to the study. We won’t begin until end of May or June, so it will be our summer study. I am hoping to have my daughter, Madeline, who just had the new baby, and her husband join us. He has been battling doubts in his faith and I believe has much spiritual warfare to overcome from his upbringing. Praying this comes about.
I’m meeting with our little homeschool group this morning and praying God would show me the needs there and his will for next year. I really sense a need to build friendships and disciple the little ones, but feel I’m lacking direction. Praying for his wisdom.
I’ve missed being here daily this week and hope to find the time to catch up on what I’ve missed this week and dive back in next week. ❤️
Father, please give Chris your plan for her — You know how you have gifted her. I am so thankful she is with us. I do pray that if it is best her daughter and husband will join the study. And how wonderful if Chris could build some friendships in the homeschool group and help disciple the little ones. Please guide. In Jesus name.
Chris, I join Dee in praying for your relationships with the homeschool group and for God to lead you.
Chris, these opportunities for study seem promising. I will pray that they pan out the way you envision.
Thursday/Friday: Tara, God Shot
Go back to the devotional and scroll down to see the Bible Recap
5. Watch, take any notes, and share your “God Shot.”
Jesus the Son came to live with us and then the Holy Spirit came to live in us. Jesus laid his plan out for what his kingdom would look like and it wasn’t for the earthly kingdom of Israel to be set up at that time but it was about his followers taking the Gospel to the ends of the world. It was to be a Spiritual Kingdom. For that to happen it depended on the power of the Holy Spirit. He was having to readjust their thinking about Him as the Messiah.
When the Holy Spirit came that day at Pentecost the situation was not filled with chaos but as she said rather it brought clarity understanding and unity. They were seeing and hearing clearly the events around them and the Gospel was made clear for all to hear and understand.
I find it interesting that the followers of Jesus were speaking in Aramaic and the foreigners were hearing them in their own languages or native tongues. But it was local Arabic speaking people who were able to hear the Gospel very clearly in their own language who rejected the message of the Gospel and tried to discredit what was happening. They could not see the forest because of the trees. They had put God and his ways in their very religious box and weren’t about to let what they saw and heard change their thinking or their lives.
Jesus can and will do so much more in my life if I will let him by the power of the Holy Spirit. I am having to ponder a lot about the work and place of the HS in my life. I know I am in dwelt but I don’t “feel” like it most of the time yet I choose to believe He is with me and working because Scripture tells me so. Experiencing the Holy Spirit is not an event but rather it is a daily faith walk.
I too want to be more aware of His Spirit. I do indeed sense Him more when I’m truly abiding. And His help as I bumble through the day in misplacing things, hard conversations, and asking Him to help me really see people.
A question you can help me with — where in the Old Testament does God tell us to love our nieghbor – -to be kind
“Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against a fellow Israelite, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.”
Leviticus 19:18 NLT
This is all I could find on being kind…There were others where they said they’d be shown kindness because or were to show kindness because. There was conditions.
“One should be kind to a fainting friend, but you accuse me without any fear of the Almighty.”
Job 6:14 NLT
Perfect, Sharon.
Yesterday at pickleball there was the worst fight between two men – one Jew and one Christian — over Trump. I need to pray about talking to each.
Oh Dee…that is awful! Will be praying for you and that God will work in the hearts of these men so they will hear/listen to what God gives you to say.
Thank you. I am close to both men. I think when politics is your god, you will react fiercely when the one you think will damn us is praised or the one you think will rescue is is criticized. They have both come to me! Thanks for your prayers.
Friday
Listening to TLC gave me fresh insight to the events in Acts 2. That the apostles were gathered at the TEMPLE awaiting the coming of the Holy Spirit, where all devout worshippers would be gathered for Pentecost. The connection between the tower of Babel and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, division of language by God (dividing men from each other) and now bringing unity by the POWER of the Holy Spirit. For some reason I had always assumed that the baptism of 3000 happened at the Jordan, but that really makes no sense that they would leave Jerusalem and trek to the river. When TLC mentioned the mikvahs (purification baths), a light bulb went on (you can actually see one that has been found).
Also a new respect for Luke. Knowing that all scripture is given by the inspiration of God, I had not really considered the time (probably years) that Luke must have spent gathering eye witness testimony and the sheer number of people he must have interviewed. God used Luke, a Gentile, to meticulously record so much. Think about that for a moment. What would the Bible be like without the books of Luke and Acts?
Cheryl: How I love all you gathered from TLC!
Amen, Cheryl! Think about that for a moment. What would the Bible be like without the books of Luke and Acts?
Next to my salvation and all that comes with it, I count having the printed Word of God as the thing I am most thankful for, Patti.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouTgX9hcwk4&list=RDouTgX9hcwk4&start_radio=1 Michael W. Smith “Ancient Words”
Thank you, Cheryl, for the link to this beautiful song of truth! I had not heard this before. I love it! The Ancient Words impart!
Cheryl, we are singing “Ancient Words” tomorrow at our morning service!
Cheryl Ann, thank you for pointing out the Jordan vs the mikvahs! I didn’t know anything about any of it. I knew 3000 were baptized, but never thought about where! So interesting!
And I wouldn’t have known if not for TLC! A quick google search is fascinating reading. If you get a chance look it up. The water in the mikvahs had to be fresh flowing, how they were hooked up to a spring or whatever I don’t know. That way each person would be getting into fresh water. The mikvahs were used daily for ceremonial purification. I wonder if Mary bathed there after the birth of Jesus? Hmm…
Thursday/ Friday:
You haven’t had a young person help you with the app yet, so you can do it this way to give you another week. Click below for her on you-tube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2k8whJgqac&list=PLkgWIAVOhHuDDVn7ArHWB78Zix9C1pEZn&index=54
Go back to the devotional and scroll down to see the Bible Recap — should look something like this. On the “Devotional” scroll down and you will see two videos — one is a summary of Acts, and the Other is Tara-Leigh. Watch Tara Leigh.
I love Tara’s way of recapping the Scripture. And I love her sense of humor: 2 CVS receipts, JBT, indoor tornado, the Holy Spirit being the original Google Translator (and we think we are the first discoveries of something), fire holograms, language convention, etc
And this:
We can’t feed the crowd with food we don’t have.
My God shot: God is always at work, and He has included us in it.
Saturday:
1. Any questions you want to ask of your sisters? Or comments on something one shared?
I love the 5 prayers before reading the Bible:
God, give me wisdom, knowledge, and understanding.
Let any knowledge I gain help me love you and others more and not puff me up.
Help me see something new about You that I have never seen before.
Correct any lies, I believe about you or anything I misunderstand.
Direct my step according to your word. Amen.
SO GOOD. And so good to pray what you learned into your life.
Hi Mom!
I’ll give this a try 🙂
xoxox
Sal