Passage of the Day:
All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. 33 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all 34 that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales 35 and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need. 36 Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”), 37 sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet, Acts 4:32-37.
Reflection:
At the end of his second chapter, Luke shares the blueprint for a successful first century church, Acts 2:42-47. Two chapters later, in today’s featured passage, Luke paints a vivid picture of a spiritual climate where consistent Christ-Like actions are lived out daily. On the surface, there was a sense that every member of this church were adopted into your family like your own flesh and blood. This mindset conceived a spirit of giving and selflessness. There was no need for a church offering every Sunday at church as individuals were naturally helping others outside of a corporate worship setting. This is the love of Jesus in action.
Prayerful Action:
Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you, Luke 6:38.
Working Out Your Salvation:
As an emotional individual, I tend to ride spiritual highs until they fade away. Subsequently, I tend to let my circumstances dictate the consistency of my faith. This is an area that I definitely need to work on this summer. The context of today’s prayerful action is that Jesus is speaking about judging others. If you give people, the benefit of doubt, grace will be extended to you as well. Therefore, as you work out your salvation this July by striving to become more consistent, treat others as you want to be treated.
Song of the Day:
Today’s song is one of my favorite ballads from college. The lyrics of the Bruce Carroll’s song challenges listeners to become consistent in their Christ-like actions. May you keep in step by the Holy Spirit by seeing and meeting the needs of those around you.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 