Unstoppable! 'The Lord's Hand Was in This!' — Acts 11:20-21

Thursday, June 29, 2023

However, some of the believers who went to Antioch... [because of the persecution in Jerusalem] began preaching to the Gentiles about the Lord Jesus. The power of the Lord was with them, and a large number of these Gentiles believed and turned to the Lord.
— Acts 11:20-21 NLT

Key Thought

To reach people wherever we go requires two essential things at the same time:
  1. Our commitment to go where the Lord leads us and to tell everyone about Jesus.
  2. The power of the Lord working to help open the hearts of those to whom we are sent.
The first of these requires our readiness and willingness to share Jesus (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8). As for the second, the Lord opened the disciples' minds and the door to the hearts of people the disciples were trying to reach (Acts 14:27, 16:14; 1 Corinthians 16:9; Colossians 4:3). He can still do the same now with us and also for people we are trying to reach with the story of Jesus.

Today's Prayer

God of all people, please help me see those whose hearts you have prepared for the message of Jesus. Empower me through the Holy Spirit to share the right words that will help them find your grace in Jesus. I commit to seeking your strength so that I will have both gentleness and courage as I share Jesus with those around me. I ask you to open their minds and hearts to the message of Jesus. In his name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • 1 Peter 3:13-17
  • Colossians 4:2-6

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Illustration

Illustration of Acts 11:20-21 NLT — However, some of the believers who went to Antioch... [because of the persecution in Jerusalem] began preaching to the Gentiles about the Lord Jesus. The power of the Lord was with them, and a large number of these Gentiles believed and turned to the Lord.

About This Devotional

Unstoppable! is a one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage, a reflection and a prayer. The reflection opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges one to live for Jesus.

Unstoppable! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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