Scripture Union Daily Guide August 12, 2020
Topic: God is Sovereign
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Opening Prayer: Dear Lord, I pray that you sanctify my spirit, soul and body as I read your word in Jesus name.
Scripture: Acts 7:17–29
Reflection
• What does the passage teach about God the Father, God the Son or God the Holy Spirit?
• What is God revealing to me in this passage?
Stephen’s review of Jewish history shows how God’s sovereignty overrides obstacles so he can carry out his purpose. When in difficulties, we can say with Isaiah, “I will trust and not be afraid, for the Lord God is my strength and my defence” (Isaiah 12:2). What was the outcome of the formal education that Moses received (v.22)? How about Daniel and his Jewish colleagues in Babylon (Daniel 1:3–7; 17–20).
What skills did Moses and Daniel and his friends receive that helped them in ministry? Whenever we have the opportunity to study, we need to do so diligently. The history of Israel is linked with Africa: God nurtured his tribe (nation) in Africa (v.17); baby Jesus’ parents retreated with him to Africa for a while (Matthew 2:13–15); an African helped him carry his cross (Mark 15:21). Faith in God is not a foreign idea but part of Africa’s cultural experience. Vv.18–19 describe the Israelites’ suffering in bondage. But Exodus 2:23–25 reveal the good this distress brought about. In times when we face daunting problems, we can count on God for help.
⁂ Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Practice/Word Application
• Meditation: “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him” (Nahum 1:7, NIV).
Prayer Points
• Intercede for people in distress that you know about. Remember nations in economic and political stress, and those battling natural disasters.
• Pray for wisdom upon leaders of the country to lead aright, with the fear of the Lord.
• Offer a prayer of faith in line with Psalm 3:8
Read the Bible in one Year
Psalms 87–88; 1 Peter 3
Scripture Union Daily Guide August 12, 2020 – Scripture Union is an international, inter-denominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God.
