Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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OPEN HEART, GOD'S START 

Bible Reading: Acts 16 : 13-15 

Key Verse:  14 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple of the city of Thyatira one that worshipped God heard us. whose heart the Lord opened to give heed to the things being spoken by Paul. 


DEVOTION

 Though Paul and his companions were planning to preach in Phyrgea, Galatia, and Troas , the spirit of the Lord prevented them going there and led them to  Philippi – which was a leading city in Macedonia a roman colony. This bible portion  mentions about Lydia's conversion to Christian faith. On the sabbath day Paul and  companions went outside the city gate to a worship place, where most of the  audience were Jewish women. Among them was a Greek business woman by the  name Lydia who was in Philippi, for selling purple linen a costly item. She was a  god fearing lady following the faith of Jewish religion. Lydia responded to the  message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Lord opened her heart to believe in Christ  Jesus . She faithfully shared her new faith and the good news to her household and all of them got baptized and joined the family of believers.  
 The human heart is changed through the act of the will. There is an in ward  action -Lord opened the heart to respond to good news, and an outward response – person got baptized and shared the good news to others. After coming to faith  Lydia offered hospitality to Paul's ministry team members.  
 Luke not only provided details of Lydia's influence on her family but portrayed  Lydia's home as the meeting place of the church in Philippi. God has opened her  heart for a great mission in that part of the Roman colony. Lord has entrusted us  the great mission to continue preaching to the end of the world. How effective is  our faith and commitment in spreading the gospel and providing hospitality. 

 
  PRAYER

Dear Lord, we know that we are a called out community to be faithful as  Christian disciples in every aspect of evangelism . Forgive our shortcomings in  meeting your demands and requirements expected of us. Strengthen us to fulfill  your mission until your second coming Amen. 
 

Thought of the day

: When God gives you direction for a mission, don't delay any  longer, get going in that direction.

 Dr. John K.Thomas Tabor MTC NY

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