Category: God’s Guidance

Wading into Unknown Waters

Sometimes God asks us to move forward with a plan and only gives us minimal details. The Bible includes many stories of courageous, faith-filled people doing this, but one of my favorites is found in the book of Joshua.

For the past few weeks we’ve been following a high-level narrative of Scripture in tandem with Elizabeth Woodson’s From Beginning to Forever.1 While Woodson’s swift pace covers lots of ground, I want to pump the brakes here so we don’t miss the incredible story of Joshua leading the Israelites into the promised land.

First, stop and imagine how daunting it must have been for Joshua to receive the mantle of leadership from Moses. His predecessor had confronted Pharaoh and prevailed, spoken directly to God multiple times, and led the unruly and ungrateful Jews in the desert for 40 years. Maybe that’s why God admonishes Joshua three times in one conversation “Be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:6,9,18).

The Lord tasks Joshua with leading roughly two million Jews across the Jordan River at flood stage when the swollen river was probably several hundred yards across. “Joshua told the people, ‘Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.’ Joshua said to the priests, ‘Take up the ark of the covenant and pass on ahead of the people.’ So they took it up and went ahead of them. And the Lord said to Joshua, ‘Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses. Tell the priests who carry the ark of the covenant: ‘When you reach the edge of the Jordan’s waters, go and stand in the river.’” (Joshua 3:5-8, NIV)

Before experiencing the “amazing things” the Lord would do, the people were required to consecrate themselves. This included bathing and washing their clothes—physically purifying themselves to symbolize spiritual purification and to honor the Lord as holy. “This was often done before making a sacrifice or, as in this case, before witnessing a great act of God. God’s law stated that a person could become unclean for many reasons…God used these various outward signs of uncleaness to illustrate man’s inward uncleaness that comes as a result of sin. The consecration ceremony pictured the importance of approaching God with a pure heart.”2 This couldn’t have been an easy process for people with no modern conveniences who had been living in the desert sands but the process of physical cleansing helped them understand and appreciate the beauty of spiritual purity found only in God.

Once everyone was scrubbed clean and packed up to move forward, the priests walked toward the rushing waters of the Jordan. Bystanders probably held their breath as the priests teetered on slippery rocks at the water’s edge while balancing the holy and precious Ark of the Covenant on poles on their shoulders.

With those steps of obedience, a miracle unfolds before their eyes: “Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water’s edge, the water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up in a heap a great distance away…So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord stopped in the middle of the Jordan and stood on dry ground, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.” (Joshua 3:15, 16a, 17, NIV) Remember, how the Lord parted the waters of the Red Sea when the Israelites’ journey began in Exodus 14? Now, He does it again at the Jordan River as their desert wandering comes to an end.

Keep in mind that Joshua trusted God before the miracle. He followed the Lord’s instructions with the simple promise that He would do “amazing things.” Bible teacher Kristi McClelland explains, “[God] doesn’t promise to tell us everything that’s going on ahead of time. He doesn’t promise we’ll see a blueprint before we start building. The reward is often on the other side of obedience…Life doesn’t always afford us all the facts before we make a decision. But we can always decide to trust God’s character. We can always decide to believe in God’s goodness and steadfast love.”3

By the time this miracle occurs, Joshua had been walking with the Lord for many years. Each time he’d stepped out in trust, God had revealed His character and faithfulness. Joshua had experienced enough miracles to know God could do whatever He said He could do. So, Joshua listened when he was told to be strong and courageous. He walked in faith, believing God’s promise that He would be with him. He took action according to God’s plans and led others with courage and confidence, undeterred by seemingly impossible circumstances. And with each act of obedience, Joshua’s faith in the Lord grew stronger.

Although I’ve never led two million people across a rushing river, I’ve seen how God reveals Himself when I respond to His prompting. Instead of holding back and playing it safe, I’ve trusted the Lord to stretch me beyond my comfort zone—whether it was starting a Bible study for spiritually curious women, spending time with teens building homes in Mexico, or spontaneously praying over hurting people I encounter. He’s used these experiences to stretch me, refine me, deepen my faith, mature me, and reveal His character.

I’m learning that God is always at work and giving us opportunities to join Him. Where might the Lord be calling you to consecrate yourself, step out in faith, and wade into unknown waters? Consider praying and asking Him to show you what He wants you to know and do. Trust Him to walk alongside you and to give you the courage to do what seems uncomfortable, awkward, or downright scary. You’ll find life is fuller, richer, and more meaningful than you could ever imagine.

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1. Elizabeth Woodson, From Beginning to Forever: A Study of the Grand Narrative of Scripture, Lifeway Press, 2022.
2. Life Application Study Bible, Zondervan & Tyndale, 1991, 338.
3. Kristi McClelland, Jesus and Women in the First Century and Now, Lifeway Press, 2019, 43-44.

Zooming Out on the Bible

In January of 2023 I started a Bible reading plan with the goal of finishing all sixty-six books before the beginning of 2024. By the time June rolled around, my bookmark was nowhere near the halfway point. My harsh inner critic seemed to be jeering at me; taunting me to quit. Instead, I ditched the twelve-month plan and continued forging ahead at a more manageable pace. Twenty months after starting, I completed my “Bible in a Year” reading plan. Although I’ve studied Scripture consistently for over twenty-five years, that was only my third time reading the Bible from start to finish. 

I love God’s Word and am a fan of doing things the hard way–but reading all sixty-six books straight through is both challenging and time consuming. That’s why I’m excited to dive into Elizabeth Woodson’s new study: From Beginning to Forever. She says, “by the end of this study you will understand how the entire story of Scripture helps us know who God is, who we are, and what we are called to do in His world. The goal, friends, is not to just know facts, but to study information that will transform our motivation for living and love for God.”1

Woodson structures her study around the Kingdom of God to give us a broad overview of Scripture. I thought a bit of Bible background might enhance your knowledge, provide context, and build your enthusiasm about zooming out to study the big picture:

Major Themes: God’s redemption story contains a four-part pattern that has been repeated throughout history:  1) Rejection of God’s way 2) Decline of God’s people  3) Consequences allowed by God’s hand 4) Restored relationship to God’s presence (This is a commonly held truth among Bible scholars.  This particular statement is paraphrased from Priscilla Shirer Gideon: Your Weakness. God’s Strength. Lifeway Press, 2013.)

Word Meaning and Organizational Structure: The word “Bible” comes from the Greek word biblos meaning “book” or “scroll”; the plural form “biblia” refers to a collection of scriptures that are treated as one book. The 39 books of the Old Testament were written mostly in Hebrew (a few short passages in Aramaic).  About 100 years (or more) before the Christian era the entire Old Testament was translated into the Greek language.  Our English Bible is a translation from these original languages. The word “testament” means “covenant,” or “agreement.”  The Old Testament is the covenant of law God made with humans. The 27 books of the New Testament explain the covenant of grace God made to provide salvation for sinful humans through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. (paraphrased from Henrietta Mears’ book What the Bible is All About, Tyndale 1953)

Old and New Testaments: The books of the Bible are not all written in perfect chronological order.  Some books have overlapping stories and themes with others.  All of them can be read as stand-alone books.  The Old Testament focuses on the story of the Jews (also called the Israelites or Children of Israel) from their earliest beginnings.  It chronicles their history as God’s chosen people.  The Old Testament covers a span of 1000 years.  The New Testament focuses on Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy who came to save and redeem not only the Jewish people but all of mankind as well.  The New Testament was written over the span of 100 years with the earliest being written between A.D. 48 & 60 and the latest between A.D. 60 and 100. (Information from Paul E. Little, Know What You Believe, Victor Books, 1987)

Authors: The Bible was written by about 40 authors over 1600 years.  The authors were kings and princes, poets and philosophers, prophets and statesmen.  Some were learned in all the arts of the times and others were unschooled fishermen.  Some of its authors knew Jesus personally.  Two of them were his brothers (James and Jude). (Henrietta Mears, What the Bible is All About.)

The Church believes that Jewish and Christian writers were guided by the Holy Spirit in the selection of the Scriptures that became the Old and New Testaments: “Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” (2 Peter 1:20-21, NIV). Beyond this guidance, there were other factors that helped determine the validity of a book:

  • Contrary to popular bestsellers (such as Da Vinci Code) the Church never had a meeting where the Scriptures were autocratically decided upon and then forced upon the rest of the Church. Instead, the books belonging to Scripture were determined by long and continuous use by both Church leaders and members. Many books were accepted due to the great influence the book was shown to have over the lives of the people. Some books were accepted because the Church members themselves could  testify how God used the book to draw many to Him and change their lives.
  •  One of the important factors for determining the inclusion of a book is its agreement with the rest of the books. The Bible cannot contradict itself. If it did, it couldn’t be  trusted. One of the basic principles when studying the Bible is being able to trust that the Bible is a cohesive work that doesn’t contradict itself. (Bullet points based on information in “The Bible Canon: How the Books of the Bible Were Chosen?” Click here for full article.) 

Interpreting Scripture: The Bible must always be interpreted in light of its context. The environment or setting in which it was written helps us determine what a passage does and doesn’t mean. Repeated phrases and ideas in the text help us to determine what’s important. As we read, we should ask ourselves:

  • What was the importance of this text for the original audience? (For them then?)
  • What does it say that applies to all people or believers? (For us always?)
  • How is this true in my current circumstances? (For me now?) (Adapted from Jen Wilkin and the Village Church Bible study materials)

Reading Literarily, not Literally: The writings in Scripture include many different genres including law, history, poetry, proverbs, prophecy, letters (epistles), apocalyptic writing, and more. Everything in the Bible isn’t meant to be read literally, but literarily. Jen Wilkin explains: “Language obeys different rules in different contexts, and the language of the Bible is no exception. A literate reading takes these rules into consideration.” (Jen Wilkin, “Why We Should Read the Bible Literarily” Click here for full article.)

Whether you’ve been studying the Bible for many years or are jumping in for the first time, there is always something new to learn: “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12, NIV) So, grab your copy of From Beginning to Forever by Elizabeth Woodson and join me for a sweeping view of the greatest story ever told that also happens to be the best-selling book of all time.

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1. Elizabeth Woodson, From Beginning to Forever: A Study of the Grand Narrative of Scripture, Lifeway Press, 2022.

Grieving the Spirit

Isn’t there something magical about a campfire under the stars? Wood crackles and pops as flames dance on a cool, dark night. The light draws people to gather and enjoy the warmth. It creates a sense of connectedness among those who savor the glow together—especially on a chilly evening. 

For the past few years I’ve enjoyed participating in this nightly ritual on our church’s annual mission to Mexico. One year the temperatures were especially cold, so gathering around the campfire was even more enticing. At the end of each evening, the only way to encourage the students to return to their tents was to douse the flames. As buckets of water poured out, steam hissed, rising with plumes of smoke from the quenched fire. Once the water extinguished the flames, everyone scattered to seek warmth zipped inside tents and nestled in sleeping bags.

This image brings to mind the Holy Spirit, often characterized as fire in the pages of Scripture. Acts 2 provides the most obvious example of this: “When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.” (Acts 2:1-4, NIV)

Although we no longer see actual flames on our heads, followers of Jesus still have the fire of the Holy Spirit living within us. And just like a campfire, we can stoke the flame of the Spirit, or squelch it. That’s why Paul includes such specific and clear instructions in Ephesians 4 for how to walk worthy of our calling. He says: “And don’t grieve God’s Holy Spirit. You were sealed by him for the day of redemption.” (Ephesians 4:30, CSB) Paul makes a similar statement in another one of his letters: “Do not quench the Spirit.” (1 Thessalonians 5:19, NIV)

These statements astound me– as frail humans, we have the capacity to sadden or squelch God’s Holy Spirit dwelling inside of us. When we walk aligned with the world, the flesh, and the devil instead of in a manner worthy of our calling, we make Him sorrowful, distressed, and heavy-hearted. Author and pastor Megan Fate Marshman explains “Grief is the recognition that something is not as it should be.” It is an “appropriate response to things being out of alignment with God’s plan.”1

Ephesians is a book about unity—first between God and humans, then between Jews and Gentiles—all made possible through Christ’s sacrifice. So, we grieve the Spirit when we choose to break that unity with God and others by sinning. This is why Paul lays out many specific instructions for walking worthy of our calling. 

So, how do we do we avoid grieving or quenching the Spirit? “Let all bitterness, anger and wrath, shouting and slander be removed from you, along with all malice. And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.” (Ephesians 4:31-32, CSB)

Honoring or grieving the Lord has everything to do with how we live—our mindsets, the choices we make, and the way we treat others. That’s why Paul covers so many topics in Ephesians 4 including our sexual practices, our choice to be truthful and trustworthy, and how we speak to one another. The passage above shows that bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, slander, and contempt have no place in the lives of authentic followers of Jesus. Instead, we’re called to be kind, tender hearted, and forgiving.  We’re urged to reject evil and embrace good. 

While I could list many examples and scenarios to illustrate these principles, I think your time would be more wisely spent inviting the Lord to search your heart to make this personal. Consider re-reading Ephesians 4 slowly and asking Him to show you if there are ways you’re grieving or quenching His Spirit. Give God permission to reveal any attitudes or perspectives you’ve adopted from the world that dishonor Him. Let Him shine a light on your behavior toward others that grieves His heart. 

As the Lord brings specific sins to mind, confess them to Him and cancel permission for the enemy to use them as an access point in your life any longer. Command any darkness or evil to leave and invite the Holy Spirit to come and expand His presence in your life.2

 There’s no way to succeed in walking worthy of Christ by trying harder on our own; we were never meant to do that. Thankfully, with the Holy Spirit dwelling in our hearts through faith, we have unlimited access to all the help we need. 

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  • 1. Megan Fate Marshman, Relaxed: Walking with the One Who Is Not Worried about a Thing, Zondervan, 2024.
  • 2. Inspired by Tim Hughes’ sermon, “Are You Hungry?” Park Hill Church Podcast, August 6, 2023. Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Inspired by Ephesians: A Study of Faith and Practice by Jackie Hill Perry, Jasmine Holmes and Melissa Kruger, Lifeway Press, 2024

Walking Worthy

My prayers often include two requests of the Lord: “Show me what You want me to know and show me what You want me to do.” Ephesians often gives answers to both questions. As I’ve been studying it, I keep coming back to chapter four. It includes so much practical wisdom for how God calls us to live. 

In this chapter, Paul shifts from explaining doctrine about God and our standing with Him to describing what it looks like to practice our faith in daily living. Once we understand the grace we’ve received at Christ’s expense, it causes us to live with gratitude for the One who paid it all. Paul starts by saying: “Therefore I, the prisoner in the Lord, urge you to walk worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope at your calling.”(Ephesians 4:1-4, CSB) 

Paul’s instructions here aren’t meant to be a list of do’s and don’ts for followers of Jesus. They aren’t rules that keep us in God’s good graces, but heart postures that show our love for Him. Not only do they reveal our desire to live in a way that honors Him but they illuminate God’s character to others who we encounter. Let’s break down Paul’s wisdom in the first half of chapter 4 and explore how we can apply it.

Walk Worthy of Your Calling:  With lives rooted in Christ, we’re meant to bear fruit that reveals the presence of the Holy Spirit. We don’t react in the flesh and let our emotions get the best of us. Instead, we let God’s Word guide us to wise responses that honor Him. When we’re tempted to think another person is the problem, we stop first and examine ourselves. We seek to respond in a way that’s worthy of our calling in Christ so we can reveal His presence in our lives. 

Always be Humble and Gentle: Being humble means setting aside pride and not viewing ourselves as superior to others. As followers of Christ, we never forget we are sinners saved only by grace. Because we’ve received God’s forgiveness, we’re aware of our pitiful state without Him. Remembering this keeps us from becoming self-righteous and condescending. Humility causes us to be gentle—mild, moderate, and kind rather than harsh or severe in our demeanor and actions. Humility and gentleness stand in opposition to the brash, arrogant, and combative ways the world tells us to react.

Be Patient, Bear with One Another in Love: As followers of Jesus, we’re called to remain calm and understanding when faced with frustrating behavior in others. Instead of focusing on their faults, we stop and remember how much God loves us despite our shortcomings. This makes us more apt to be patient with challenging people. Additionally, choosing to love keeps us from letting frustration magnify the faults of others. Patience allows us to remain calm, empathetic, and loving instead of short-tempered and harsh.

Keep United in the Spirit, Bound Together with Peace: Through the bond of the Holy Spirit, believers seek to stay united with one another. Because we have peace with God through Christ, we’re equipped to seek peace with one another. This reflects Jesus’ heart for us: “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.” (John 17:20-21, NLT) God’s intention is for the unity of Christ-followers to prompt others to believe in Jesus. Striving for peace and unity with one another reveals Christ to a cynical world. 

Pursue Spiritual Maturity: Paul continues by explaining that God provides evangelists, apostles, pastors and teachers to equip believers “for the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of God’s Son, growing into maturity with a stature measured by Christ’s fullness.” (Ephesians 4:12b-13, CSB) We aren’t meant to stay stagnant but to keep walking forward in our faith; we continue pressing on to know God more intimately and to serve Him more faithfully. As we do this, we grow deeper in our love for Him and our understanding of His goodness. This means we will “no longer be little children, tossed by the waves and blown around by every wind of teaching, by human cunning with cleverness in the techniques of deceit.” (Ephesians 4:14, CSB) 

When we walk worthy of Christ, we reflect God’s deep love for us. Paul urges us to embrace the beauty and unity that come from following this wisdom: “But speaking the truth in love, let us grow in every way into him who is the head—Christ. From him the whole body, fitted and knit together by every supporting ligament, promotes the growth of the body for building itself up in love by the proper working of each individual part.”(Ephesians 4:15-16, CSB)

What is one area addressed in Paul’s instructions that might be worth examining in your life so that you can continue walking forward in your calling? Is it asking the Lord to increase your humility and gentleness? Praying for more patience to bear with others in love? Pursuing peace and unity with fellow believers with whom you differ? Growing in spiritual wisdom and maturity so you’re not tossed around by different perspectives and worldviews? Using your gifts to bless and build the body of believers? Consider prayerfully re-reading Ephesians 4 and inviting the Lord to show you one area He wants to transform in you.

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Inspired by Ephesians: A Study of Faith and Practice by Jackie Hill Perry, Jasmine Holmes and Melissa Kruger, Lifeway Press, 2024.

Sealed with the Spirit

If you’ve ever bought or sold a house, entered into a legal agreement, or had to prove your identity, then you know you need a notary public to provide an official seal that authenticates documents. Whether it’s embossed, stamped, impressed, or affixed, a seal is the evidence that an agreement, contract, or document is legitimate and that all parties involved agree. Documents only need to be sealed once to be proven authentic. 

While you may find this mini-lesson on seals less than riveting, it has incredible implications when we read Paul’s words in Ephesians: “When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.” (Ephesians 1:13b-14, NIV) Being sealed with the Spirit proves we belong to God and are entitled to receive the riches of a vast spiritual inheritance available to all of His children. The only condition for being sealed with the Spirit is believing in Jesus. God has fulfilled all the other requirements to make this possible.

Once you are sealed with the Spirit, it is a mark of ownership that shows your place in the eternal family of God. It cannot be removed or taken away. The Spirit’s indwelling presence provides an unending, intimate connection between God and each of us individually. This is the miracle and the mystery Jesus described to His disciples before He ascended into heaven: “you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.” (Acts 1:8a, ESV) 

That promise Jesus made to the disciples long ago is one that we still benefit from today. While being sealed is a one-time event showing we belong to God, that is only the beginning. We have the privilege of engaging with the Holy Spirit and cultivating a relationship with Him and asking Him for a fresh filling of Himself every day. And our capacity to experience the “fullness of God” described in Ephesians 3:19 expands continually as we interact with the Spirit and invite Him to work in and through us. Let’s examine several unique qualities about Him revealed in Scripture:

Helper/ Counselor/ Advocate/ Comforter: These names used in different translations of John 14 and 16 come from the Greek word “parakletos” which means “one called to the side of another.” The Holy Spirit is a personal being who indwells followers of Jesus. When we’re weak, weary, or troubled, we can ask Him for help. When we’re struggling or unsure what to do, we can seek Him for wisdom. When we don’t know how to pray, we can rely on Him to advocate for us with the Father. When we’re grieving and sorrowful, we can cry out to Him for comfort.

Reminder: Jesus says the Holy Spirit will “teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” (John 14:26, ESV) The Spirit often gives us gentle nudges, reminding us of truth we’ve studied in Scripture. He brings clarity to what we’re reading in the Bible and helps us to understand it. He enables us to discern how to apply His Word in specific situations. When we’re believing the enemy’s lies or misled by his deceit, the Spirit exposes him and reminds us of God’s truth.

Convicter: Jesus says the Holy Spirit will “convict the world concerning sin.” (John 16:8b, ESV) It’s humbling, but also comforting to recognize where our sinful thoughts, words, and actions have stunted our spiritual growth or damaged our relationships with God and others. Although it’s not fun to have the Spirit illuminate sin, we can be grateful for the opportunity to confess and repent to receive forgiveness, cleansing, and healing. Being open to conviction and having a willingness to repent from sin allows us to maintain close connection to God.

Guide: Jesus says “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.” (John 16:13, ESV) When we’re at a crossroads and unsure how to proceed, the Holy Spirit serves as a good and reliable guide. The world is a confusing place full of contradictions and mixed messages but with the Spirit showing us the way, we can move forward with confidence and peace. 

Power Source: Just before His ascension, Jesus tells the disciples “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8, ESV) The same power and authority “that [God] worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places” exists within all who follow Christ today! (Ephesians 1:20 ESV)

Believing in Jesus and being sealed with the Spirit marks the beginning of a lifetime of growing deeper and discovering the vastness of God’s love, power, and authority. However, the Holy Spirit is gentle and quiet, He won’t force Himself on us. Just like a relationship with a person, we need to nurture our relationship with Him and continue to grow in our awareness of His presence. 

As you ponder these incredible truths I pray the Father “may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might.” (Ephesians 1:17b-19, ESV)

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Inspired by Ephesians: A Study of Faith and Practice by Jackie Hill Perry, Jasmine Holmes and Melissa Kruger, Lifeway Press, 2024.

Let it Unfold

It’s been almost a year since God answered an angsty prayer by speaking to me in a dream. I’d found myself in a familiar situation—coordinating logistics for my family’s schedule and feeling frustrated that everyone wasn’t in sync. A tense conversation with one of my kids hadn’t ended well and I’d gone to bed discouraged. After tossing and turning for several hours, I fell into a fitful sleep while my brain continued to process a solution to our stalemate. 

My son’s lack of willingness to adjust to my plan was going to cost time and money as well as causing great inconvenience. Before falling asleep, I’d been weighing the different approaches I could use to get him to see the situation from my perspective. Exhausted, I eventually drifted off to sleep when, just before waking, calming words in a dream filled me with peace. I don’t think I heard the Lord audibly, but His message was clear: “Let it unfold.”

Pulling back the covers in the dawn light, I chose to trust God’s gentle voice as I anticipated the day ahead. Instead of trying to convince my son to get on board with my logistically “superior” plan, I held off and opted to let events unfold without intervening. A few months later, when the plans came to fruition, I understood what the Lord had been doing. The plan that, in my mind, had seemed illogical and inconvenient actually turned out to be God’s provision—a needed respite in an unexpected season of intensity in our family.

I view time as a precious commodity and see efficiency as the key to prevent wasting it. There’s nothing I love more than a well-crafted plan that works out exactly as I expect. But in the past year, the Lord has reminded me again and again of that phrase He gave me last summer: “Let it unfold.” When I’m tempted to speak up and step in to fix, suggest, or point out a better way to do something, I’m learning to pause and pray first. In my attempts to help others or improve situations, my proactivity can short-circuit the learning process for someone else. Worse still, it can squelch the Holy Spirit from moving or speaking.

We live in a fast-paced world and most of us don’t believe we have time to slow down and let things unfold, but that’s not the way of Jesus. When I’m tempted to rush or to force my plan on someone else, I’m reminded that Jesus was never in a hurry. He never rushed. Likewise, God never forces Himself or His plans on us. He waits patiently and delights when we choose to follow His ways instead of ours. I love how Jesus says this in The Message (a contemporary language paraphrase of the Bible): 

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

Learning to “let it unfold” has been an exercise in restraint for the past year. But as I’ve held back and waited longer than I would have preferred, I’ve watched the Lord move and have witnessed His “unforced rhythms of grace” more times than I can count. Sometimes it’s with one of my adult kids, other times, it’s been with extended family, or people I serve with or lead in ministry. Letting things unfold has helped me avoid unneeded tension with others that often comes with unsolicited advice, unwelcome opinions, and forced decisions. The Lord has shed light on pride that leads me to see my way of doing things as “best.” He’s humbled me and helped me to recognize the beauty of letting others learn through experience instead of being subjected to my “helpful” suggestions. I’m still growing in patience but am seeing the positive results of trusting His timing instead of acting on my impulses. 

What about you? Are you ever tempted to intervene and fast track the learning process for someone else? Do you sometimes want to help others see the value of your perspectives or opinions whether they’re ready to listen or not? Are you quick to offer a suggestion or observation before inviting the Holy Spirit to intercede? Letting things unfold doesn’t mean doing nothing, but it does mean pausing to pray. Sometimes the Lord may prompt you to speak up or step in; at other times He’ll guide you to hold off and wait. Seeking His guidance enables you to be confident that you’re relying on God’s wisdom instead of your knee-jerk response.

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Ebenezer Stones

This spring marked the culmination of two significant seasons in my life: my youngest child graduated from college and I completed my fourth and final year serving as Women’s Ministries Director at my church. It’s been a poignant time as I’ve looked back at God’s faithfulness over the past four years. New and exciting ministry endeavors await, but before I dive into them, I’d like to pause and reflect on what I’ve learned. This summer’s posts will stand as stones of remembrance that mark where the Lord revealed Himself to me–my prayer is that they glorify Him and provide practical wisdom that will bless others and build His kingdom.

One of my favorite stories about stones of remembrance comes from the book of Joshua. After fleeing from slavery in Egypt and wandering in the desert for forty years, the Israelites enter the promised land at long last. Moses has passed away and they are now under the leadership of Joshua. In a miraculous set of events, the Lord holds back the rushing waters of the Jordan River at flood stage so that His people can move safely into the promised land. Once they cross, Joshua instructs them to set up a monument using twelve large stones from the riverbed.  “He said to the Israelites, ‘In the future when your descendants ask their parents, ‘What do these stones mean?’  tell them, ‘Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground.’ For the Lord your God dried up the Jordan before you until you had crossed over. The Lord your God did to the Jordan what he had done to the Red Sea when he dried it up before us until we had crossed over.  He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful and so that you might always fear the Lord your God.” (Joshua 4:21-24, NIV)

Later in Scripture, symbols of remembrance are called Ebenezer stones. This label appears in the book of First Samuel when Israel’s army musters for an attack by the Philistines. As they prepare for battle, “They said to Samuel, ‘Do not stop crying out to the LORD our God for us, that he may rescue us from the hand of the Philistines.’ Then Samuel took a suckling lamb and sacrificed it as a whole burnt offering to the LORD. He cried out to the LORD on Israel’s behalf, and the LORD answered him. While Samuel was sacrificing the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to engage Israel in battle. But that day the LORD thundered with loud thunder against the Philistines and threw them into such a panic that they were routed before the Israelites…Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, ‘Thus far the LORD has helped us.’” (1 Samuel 7:8-10, 12, NIV)

So, Ebenezer stones commemorate the Lord’s help and faithfulness at specific points in time. Anything we lay eyes on can become an Ebenezer stone that symbolizes of our gratitude to God, whether it’s written or visual. These tangible reminders give us reassurance and hope for the future and prompt us to tell others about what the Lord has done in our lives.

Maybe this slower-paced season is a good time for you to do some reflecting too. Whether you’re flying to a faraway place, relaxing on a beach, lounging by a pool, or hiking a mountain trail, why not take some time to consider where the Lord has been at work in your life over the past year? What have you learned about Him and about yourself? How have you grown spiritually? What stones of remembrance will mark this season in your life as a testimony of God’s faithfulness? Who will you tell so that you can give glory to the Lord?

Want to learn more about Ebenezer stones and the hymn that made them famous? Click here.

Want to encourage someone else? Consider forwarding this post to them.

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Yearning for Unity

Scrolling through my news feed, I’m surprised at how frequently there are articles having to do with the Church or faith-related issues. Sadly, most of the time the articles describe behaviors and attitudes of people who label themselves as “Christian” but have no resemblance to Jesus. I was saddened by a recent one I read that detailed two factions with wildly divergent views whose differences led to a tragic death. It’s no secret that tension and divisiveness have become the norm in our culture today, even in the body of Christ. 

So how do we arrive at the unity that Jesus prayed for in John 17?  How do we respond when others who worship beside us hold different views? Do we reject them and retreat, only associating with those who share the same viewpoints? Do we avoid any subject that might elicit discomfort or a strong reaction?

A good starting place for answering these questions is understanding Jesus’ prayer for unity: “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” (John 17:20-23, NIV)

First, it’s important to note that unity and uniformity are not the same thing. Uniformity happens when we already think alike. Conversely, unity only comes when we work hard to find ways to agree with others who have differing views. Unity is something we must grapple with as believers. Ultimately, a stronger bond comes when we acknowledge our differing views and demonstrate willingness to listen and find common ground. So, let’s explore three ways we can align with the heart of Jesus and pursue unity as His followers.1

1) Commit to the Mission of the Church (with a capital “C”): Christian churches across the world use different language to convey a common mission: To know Christ and make Him known. Jesus says it this way in His prayer: “I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” (John 17:23, NIV) Obedience to God includes gathering with others to worship, connect, and serve. We’re meant to do this together to honor the Lord and realign ourselves with His will. As we’re reminded of God’s love, mercy, and grace, we band together to share what we’ve received from Him with the world around us. When we stop gathering and divide into factions, we prize uniformity and become suspicious of others. This inward focus causes us to become critical of anyone not in our closed system. We zero in on other believers who do things differently instead of looking outward to the world that desperately needs to hear the hope of the gospel. “For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.” (Galatians 5:14-15, NIV)

2) Commit to Being Humble and Others-centric: Our personal opinions feel important and can spark strong emotions, especially in the divisive times we’re living in right now. No one agrees with every decision made by leaders or individuals. But we need to prioritize respecting one another as people and followers of Christ more than we care about being right or airing our opinions. Consider Paul’s wise counsel: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” (Ephesians 4:2-6, NIV)

3) Commit to Sacrificing Your Will:  Jesus prayed for the unity of all believers knowing it would be difficult. He prayed this only hours before He was betrayed, abandoned, arrested, tortured, and killed. This is what He was agreeing to when He prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” (Matthew 26:39, NIV) Jesus gave up His will for our sake. Are we willing to do that for His Church? 

Pursuing unity as a body of believers requires an unwavering focus on Jesus. Consider the wisdom of A.W. Tozer: “Has it ever occurred to you that one hundred pianos all tuned to the same fork are automatically tuned to each other? They are of one accord by being tuned, not to each other, but to another standard to which each one must individually bow. So, one hundred worshipers meeting together, each one looking away to Christ, are in heart nearer to each other than they could possibly be, were they to become ‘unity’ conscious and turn their eyes away from God to strive for closer fellowship.”

Author and Bible teacher Kristi McClellan emphasizes: “Oneness is the way of the kingdom of God in the world. Gospel-centered kingdom-oriented unity has always been a unity within diversity. Unity does not occur when we become the same. True, robust, healthy, and vibrant unity happens within our unique and diverse expressions…Jesus prayed we would be one. Let’s do all we can to honor Him as followers of Jesus seeking oneness, unity, harmony, wholeness, flourishing, and delight. The church is best expressed as a bouquet of unique flowers rather than twelve red roses. We are better together…pray our oneness and unity will give the world an ancient taste of Eden and a future taste of the new heaven and the new earth fully realized.”2

As followers of Jesus, let’s commit to pursuing unity and praying for oneness among our fellow believers. Instead of being quick to notice differences that irk us, let’s ask the Lord to reveal where we may be prioritizing our personal agendas. With humility, let’s invite Him to reveal where we’ve gotten in the habit of finding fault, taking offense, or creating division. Let’s ask Him to show the power of His infinite love and grace through us to every person we encounter.

Was this forwarded to you? You can receive new posts automatically in your inbox by going to www.marybethmccullum.com, entering your e-mail address and clicking “subscribe.”

1. The definition of unity vs. uniformity and the three points below it are based on Sean Morgan’s Leaders in Living Rooms podcast episode “Ugly Bride- Three Essential for Church Unity” from Sept. 13, 2021.

2. Kristi McClellan, When You Pray, Session 7, Lifeway Press, 2023, 200.

Expanding Intercession

“Does anyone have prayer requests?” I couldn’t begin to count how many times I’ve heard that question while sitting in a circle with other believers. Usually people share about the circumstances of people they love—whether it’s asking for physical healing, emotional support, relational peace, or something else that will affect life in the natural world.

After studying intercessions of many faithful people in Scripture, I’ve been surprised to discover they have a very different emphasis. Take Paul’s opening prayer in Ephesians for example: “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.” (Ephesians 1:17-19, NIV) Paul’s prayer centers on the spiritual realm. He prays for those he loves to receive wisdom and revelation so they can know the Lord better. He prays their spiritual eyes will be opened and they’ll have greater understanding of the power they have through the Spirit.

Inspired by this prayer a few years ago, I started interceding less about circumstances of those I love and more about the eyes of their hearts being opened. While I care about their health, safety, and relationships, I now see that praying for their hearts and minds to be aligned with the Lord will have a more lasting impact (and will actually affect their health, safety, and relationships positively too.) More than anything, I want them to know God deeply and understand the riches they have in Him. It’s been encouraging, gratifying, and sometimes surprising to recognize how God has responded to my prayers over time.

When we intercede for ourselves and others, we have access to a limitless source of spiritual power. Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3 illustrates this: “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:16-19, NIV) The answer to this prayer changes how believers see themselves and others. Once we grasp the depth of God’s love for us and root ourselves in it, we overflow with Jesus’ love. Instead of looking for people to fill us, we’re able to pour out God’s love on them.

Jada Edwards explains, “When Christ dwells in our hearts, we are so grounded in love that we are able to see people in the image of God. This type of love should be something we daily ask God to manifest in us and something we daily pray for others in the Spirit of Paul’s prayer.”1 Edwards invites us to stretch our faith and pray for God’s power to be more evident in ourselves, others, and among all believers. Consider these ideas to expand your prayers of intercession:

-In our personal lives: We can ask the Lord to fill us and satisfy us so completely each day that we’re not tempted to look for any lesser thing or person to quench our spiritual thirst. We can also pray for God to give us His power in practical ways—whether it’s enabling us to offer forgiveness and mend a relationship, to give us contentment while a longing remains unfulfilled, or to experience joy that is rooted in knowing Christ instead of circumstances being the way we want. We can ask God to align our hearts and minds to His will and to let the fruit of the Spirit be evident and bountiful in our lives: “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23a NLT)

-In the lives of others: We can ask God to reveal Himself in ways they can see and feel; to help them persevere and trust Him through trials; to encourage them when they’re struggling; to heal and comfort physical and emotional pain; to provide for tangible needs; to convict them when they’re mired in sin; or to give them wisdom and guidance in making decisions. We can pray for the Lord to help them remain closely connected to Him and to bear fruit that reveals His presence in their lives. “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.” (John 15:7-8, NIV)

-In the church (local and global): We can ask God to empower us collectively to show His love to the world; to equip us to serve others with wisdom and grace; to bring unity among all believers in our divided world; to meet physical and emotional needs of the hurting through the church; to keep us humble and pure in heart; and to bring the light of hope into the darkness. “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16, NIV)

Every suggestion here has been inspired by Scripture. When we let the Bible inform our prayers, we can be confident that they align with God’s will. Consider expanding your prayers of intercession—look beyond circumstances and pray for hearts and minds to be more attuned to the Kingdom of God. Try using Paul’s prayers when you’re interceding for others. Ask the Lord to open the eyes of your heart and to fill you with His love that surpasses knowledge, then watch the way it overflows from your life.

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1. Jada Edwards, When You Pray, Lifeway Press 2023, 157.

Wrapping Up Acts

We’ve been camped out in the book of Acts for quite a while (7 months and 19 previous posts, to be exact.) This pivotal narrative has revealed the fulfillment of prophecy from the Old Testament. It has also provided crucial context for understanding the astounding changes in Jesus’ disciples and the rapid expansion of the gospel. Really, Acts is the bridge between the first four books of the New Testament and the twenty-two that come after it.

Some of you reading this have been part of the Focused Living Bible study that has studied diligently and met weekly to delve into Scripture using Acts: The Gospel Goes Out Parts 1 & 2 by the Village Church. Along with our small group discussions, we’ve also had twelve gifted teachers lead us through the twenty-eight chapters of this incredible book. So, as we wrap up, I’ve included a brief compilation of my notes along with a link to each teaching (the notes really don’t do the teachings justice). As you read (and watch), you’ll notice some powerful repeating themes. My hope and prayer is that the head knowledge you’ve gained studying Acts becomes heart knowledge you’re living on a daily basis.

Acts Introduction:  Pattie Cox

  • You need the backstory to write your story. 
  • General themes in Acts: the Gospel, opposition and persecution, history of the early church, the Holy Spirit.
  • The Holy Spirit is the person who fuels your story.
  • Anything is possible empowered by the Holy Spirit.

To watch Pattie’s teaching click here.

Acts 1: “The Ascension” Heather Congo

  • We need to wait AND walk as Jesus’ witnesses.
  • Stand on the proof of Jesus.
  • Lean into the power of the Holy Spirit.
  • Pray continually and in community.

To watch Heather’s teaching click here.

Acts 2: “Pentecost” Amethyst Thomas

  • Bold faith saves lives.
  • When you are confused, ask questions (don’t criticize).
  • When you are confused about the Holy Spirit, turn to the Holy Scriptures 
  • Who will you pray about boldly sharing your faith with?
  • What if someone had not shared the Gospel with you?

To watch Amethyst’s teaching click here.

Acts 3:1-4:31 “A Healing, a Sermon, and a Prison” Vanessa Lepisi

  • Faith says it’s possible, but hope says it’s possible for me.
  • Don’t walk past a hurting world and pretend you’re helpless when you have the Helper living inside you!
  • The Spirit stirs in you and then empowers you to speak words of life!

To watch Vanessa’s teaching click here.

Acts 4:32-5:42 “Church Formation” Marybeth McCullum

Pleasing people may have value for a moment but pleasing God has value for eternity.

Temporary Value: Eternal Value:
Being generous to receive praise from othersBeing generous for the glory of God
Focusing on your personal agendaFocusing on God’s agenda
Deceiving others with hypocrisyDemonstrating integrity & honesty
Hollow gestures for showSpirit-led actions to bless others

                                                     

  • Where is your fear of discomfort holding you back from growing spiritually and encountering the Lord in new ways?
  • If we’re intent on pleasing people more than obeying God, we’re missing out on all the ways God may want to use us to bring more of His kingdom to earth.

To watch Marybeth’s teaching click here.

Acts 6:1-8:3 “Stephen” Lisa Van Randwyk

  • One faithful believer can have profound impact through a faithful God.
  • Stephen’s story shows the impact of one life, one voice, and one tragedy.
  • God’s resumé is a story of faithfulness from generation to generation.
  • You have a story of God’s faithfulness in your life; a story with telling!
  • Don’t underestimate the impact of what the Spirit can do through you!
Pattern of GodPattern of Man
Promise KeeperDisobedient
Covenant MakerIdolatrous
RescuerWorships Self
Giver of Wisdom and FavorForgetful

To watch Lisa’s teaching click here.

Acts 8:4-40  “Simon and Philip” Pattie Cox

  • The Gospel goes out in invitation and warning; be “Gospel Invitation” people!
  • God uses ordinary people like you and me.
  • All are invited to Jesus, not to an organization or a program.
  • The Gospel goes out in words and deeds and results in joy.
  • We can have unity even in diversity—“In essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things charity.”
  • The Gospel goes out in warning: Don’t be amazed by the wrong invitation or fooled by those who misuse it.
  • God is the great pursuer, those previously excluded (Gentiles) are now welcomed.
  • God uses obedient believers to explain the Gospel to seeking souls.

To watch Pattie’s teaching click here.

Acts 9:1-31 “Saul’s Conversion” Tracey Shepherd

We are God’s instruments, chosen to play a part in His masterpiece. 

Chosen Instruments:
Surrender to Jesus as The Way
Obey the ways of Jesus
Rise and Go
Play a part in opening the eyes of others
Come alongside other chosen instruments realizing they have one part to play in God’s greater masterpiece.

To watch Tracey’s teaching click here.

Acts 9:32-11:18 “Peter’s Ministry” Lindsay Hanover

  • The Gospel is for everyone. God does not show favoritism. And neither should we.
  • When we hear the Lord’s voice, are we quick to obey?
  • What are the areas in your life that need changing or softening?
  • When faced with criticism do we let the Holy Spirit defend us?
  • Are you open and willing to go where God is calling you, even if it’s out of your comfort zone?

To watch Lindsay’s teaching click here.

Acts 11:19-12:25 “Expansion and Opposition” Kelly Holbrook

God has the final say:
in the gospel spreading despite persecution
in the church’s hearts by giving them hope
over earthly kings 
in the faith of the church
over sin

“The chapter opens with James dead, Peter in prison and Herod triumphing. It closes with Herod dead, Peter free and the word of God triumphing. Such is the power of God to overthrow human plans and to establish his own in their place.” -John Stott

To watch Kelly’s teaching click here.

Acts 13 “Paul and Barnabas” Temtem Armonious

  • The Good Kind of FOMO urges us not to miss out on enjoying the gift of the Holy Spirit and all He can do through us. (FOMO= “Fear of Missing Out.”)
  • In the presence of the real light, the fake light does not stand a chance. 
  • When in doubt, step back into the real light. (Ephesians 5:8)
  • When you step into the action, the Holy Spirit equips.
  • Don’t count your losses and missed opportunities just yet! The Holy Spirit prevails over human failure.
  • Be relatable to the world without conforming to the ways of the world. (1 Cor 9:20-23)
  • We too have a share in the gospel. Do you want it?
  • Transformation is the job of the Holy Spirit. Full joy comes when we are full of the Holy Spirit.

To watch Temtem’s teaching click here.

Acts 14- Acts 15:35 “The Jerusalem Council” Wendy Hagen

  • We are all made to worship something. What do you worship?
  • We are made to give and receive encouragement.
  • What do you go to for comfort instead of turning to God?
  • Idols aren’t always bad things, except when they become “ultimate.”
  • People aren’t meant to be worshiped.

To watch Wendy’s teaching click here.

Acts 15:36-16:40 “Paul’s Second Missionary Journey”  Vanessa Lepisi

  • Is opposition a sign we ought not to proceed?
  • When men divide, God multiplies.
  • Putting our egos aside puts Jesus on the pedestal and makes us willing servants of all.
  • A season of suffering may be a small price to pay for God’s greater glory. Suffering you’re enduring may not be about you at all! Keep enduring in faith and hold onto hope. God wastes nothing, not even our pain!
  • When faced with opposition consider your methods, giftings, and motivations to see if you’re aligned with God’s will.
How do you know WHEN to “become all things, to all people”? Ask yourself:
Is it ultimately MY choice & no one is forcing me?
Does it call into question my character or integrity before God?
Does it contradict the word of God?
Does it keep me safely inside my comfort zone?
Does it cause more unity than division or strife?

To watch Vanessa’s teaching click here.

Acts 17:1-18:21 “No Longer an Unknown God” Pattie Cox

  • Be women who turn the world upside down for Jesus.
  • Be women who KNOW Scripture, God’s Word.
  • Be women willing to DIALOGUE with people.
  • Be women who LIVE AS JESUS IS THEIR KING.
  • Be women whose spirit is provoked by seeing the culture from God’s eyes. 
  • Be women who can enter into the false stories of the culture and tell them the true story of Jesus.
  • Your suffering gives an opportunity to turn the world upside down.
  • Invite people into the community of believers.
  • Tell the world about your personal God.
  • Introduce the world to the presence and promises of God.
  • Be women who persevere and who are courageous despite suffering.

To watch Pattie’s teaching click here.

Acts 18:22-19:41 “Paul’s Third Missionary Journey” Heather Congo

  • What we believe matters. We must improve our accuracy, reason boldly, turn away from idols and to the one true God.
  • Who can help you toward greater accuracy?
  • How might you need to be open to correction?
  • What idols do you need to turn from?
  • How can we challenge ideas and industries that propagate evil while also maintaining a good standing in our society?

To watch Heather’s teaching click here.

Acts 20-21:36 “Paul in Jerusalem” Lisa Van Randwyk

  • Follow the Spirit’s current. Invite Him to partner with you every day.
  • The Spirit’s current sometimes leads in a surprising direction.
  • The Spirit’s current gives direction, encouragement, and warning.
  • The Spirit’s current keeps us steady in dangerous waters.
  • Currents diminish in intensity the deeper they go; as we’re grounded in the Word, we won’t be so easily thrown off by our culture.

To watch Lisa’s teaching click here.

Acts 21:37-23:35 “Accusation and Arrest” Dana Van Egdom

  • God is good, even when things don’t go according to plan.
  • God is always working on your behalf.
  • Live your life like you’ve been saved!
  • Stay connected to the TRUE vine. (John 15)
  • God is the good in our testimony!
  • God uses ALL of our story for His glory.
  • We can take courage because God is with us.

To watch Dana’s teaching click here.

Acts 24-26 “Appeal to Caesar” Kelly Holbrook

  • God doesn’t waste anything. He uses our gifts, experiences and circumstances to bring His glory.
  • Paul’s calm demeanor → earned an audience
  • Paul’s speaking abilities & knowledge → persuaded Roman officials
  • Paul’s circumstances → shared Jesus 
  • Paul’s citizenship → got him to Rome to preach the gospel
  • Paul’s story → testified to the truth that Jesus is Lord!
  • How do you respond to unfair or false accusations?
  • What gifts has God given you to glorify Him?
  • How has God used the story He’s written in your life to bring Him glory?

To watch Kelly’s teaching click here.

Acts 27:1-28-31 “Paul in Rome” Pattie Cox

  • The Gospel is progressing then and now.
  • Your faith in God can spill over to encourage others around you.
  • Trust God to do all the He has promised.
  • Make the most of every opportunity.
  • The Gospel is for everyone.
  • The Gospel always confronts people with a choice.
  • Persecution brought a greater harvest.
  • Ordinary people do extraordinary things by the power of the Holy Spirit.
  • The story is to be continued in you – move it forward!
  • God has a zero margin of error, guaranteed 100% achievement rate. He cannot fail.

To watch Pattie’s teaching click here.

At the beginning of Acts Jesus told His disciples “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8, ESV) Like His followers then, we are called to be witnesses to what He’s done in our lives now. We aren’t called to be attorneys arguing our case or judges making rulings– we are called to walk with Jesus and to tell others how that makes all the difference. Be inspired by all you’ve learned studying Acts and invite the Spirit to continue His work in and through your life daily.

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