No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are.”
Acts 15:11//

We are not saved by works such as circumcision, good deeds, or even the work of baptism. We are saved by grace through faith.

At Iconium Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue. There they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Greeks believed.
Acts 14:1//

Lord, enable me to be effective in my ministry to others, so that they may believe in You.

Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.
Acts 13:1-3//

At any time, God may call some of us from the church to go out to the sinful world to spread His message among the people.

But the word of God continued to spread and flourish.
Acts 12:24//

In the midst of persecution, the Gospel endures.

Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews.
Acts 11:19//

Another example of how God uses tragedy for His purposes. Lord, help me to remember You are in control and make everything work for good for those who love You, even when I cannot see it.

Cornelius stared at him in fear. “What is it, Lord?” he asked. The angel answered, “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God.
Acts 10:4//

More than tangible things can be an offering, including prayer.

“Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied.
Acts 9:5//

Even though Saul did not believe at the time, he still knew the Lord was talking to him. Everyone knows Jesus is the Lord, even if they don’t believe or place their faith in Him. Some simply refuse.

“Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him,
Acts 7:56-57//

Some people will never listen to the truth.

And Saul approved of their killing him…
Acts 8:1a//

If God can use men like Saul, he can use a sinner like me.

But they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke.
Acts 6:10//

Lord, fill me with the wisdom of the Holy Spirit!