Scripture Union Daily Guide 8th August 2024 (Thursday) Devotional Message
TOPIC: A Unique Fellowship
OPENING PRAYER: May my heart, O Lord, be receptive to your word as I meditate on it.
SCRIPTURE READING: ACTS 4:32-5:11
Question(s) for Reflection
* Q2: Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
One outcome of the disciples’ prayer was witnessing with great power. In addition, notice the characteristics they exhibited that made them unique and worthy of emulation. They were of one heart and mind (v.32). This had been building up from the beginning (see Acts 1:14, 2:1, 2:46 and 4:24). Now they showed this oneness in everything they do (vs.32, 34-35). What they proclaimed began to make a difference to how they lived, and what they lived for.
Notice Barnabas’ unique contribution to the ministry of the church (vs.36-37). Is this possible today? The Lord Jesus prayed that we may be one even as He and the Father are one (see John 17:21). If this oneness in heart and mind is absent, let us return to it. Because of this special quality in the early church, there was no lack among them (v.34).
When external force failed, the devil decided to try internal decay. The proclamation of Peter against Ananias and Sapphira may appear too high-handed, but this highlights the potential negative impact of their deceit. Achan’s sin following the great victory of Jericho, brought disastrous consequence on the whole nation of Israel. But for the spiritual sensitivity of Peter, internal decay would have set in and achieved that which imprisonment and threats could not achieve.
* Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Closing Prayer
Dear Lord, help me to be an encourager like Barnabas, always willing to give to support others for the sake of the gospel.
Offer a prayer of faith in line with Psalms 23:1
“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
One Year Bible Reading Plan
Daily Bible Reading Plan: Day 221- Jeremiah 7-9
NATIONAL PRAYER BULLETIN – Thursday Aug 08, 2024
PRAYER FOCUS
REGIONAL COORDINATORS
Commit your works to the Lord and your thoughts will be established.
Prov 16:3
THANK GOD FOR:
‣ His grace on the RCs to carry out their duties in their respective Regions, for protection and provision for their families.
PRAY FOR:
‣ God’s wisdom, grace and strength for them to coordinate the affairs of the Region.
‣ They will receive fresh ideas on how to move their Regions forward and overcome the challenges of their schedules.
‣ Good working relationship with the RCM and the brethren; and abundant blessings for their families.