Acts 26:14-16 We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice saying to me in Aramaic, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’ “Then I asked, ‘Who are you, Lord?’“ ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,’ the Lord replied. ‘Now get up and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen and will see of me. 

We all have a past and yet, the Lord calls us to be a servant and a witness; for He has forgiven the sins of those who have accepted His grace through Jesus Christ.

Romans 12:14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.

Help me, O Lord, to respond to those who are unkind with blessing and sincere prayers. 

Acts 25:7-8 When Paul came in, the Jews who had come down from Jerusalem stood around him. They brought many serious charges against him, but they could not prove them. Then Paul made his defense: “I have done nothing wrong against the Jewish law or against the temple or against Caesar.” 

Because of our faith, we will be accused of many things. Father, enable me to be strong in the midst of tribulation and that my only serious “crime” against others is proclaiming the Gospel.

Romans 12:13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need.

This requires spiritual sensitivity so that I can first SEE others’ needs. Lord, deliver me from my self-absorption and help me to recognize the needs of others and then respond appropriately. 

Acts 24:25 As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, “That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” 

When we testify, we should expect that some unbelievers will be fearful and not listen to our testimony or God. They may turn away, but that does not mean our testimony has not impacted them. Lord, please change the hearts and minds of unbelievers that I witness to in my life.

Romans 12:11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

I am personally responsible for maintaining my spiritual fervor. Serving the Lord is one way to do that. 

Acts 23:11 The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.” 

In some of our darkest hours, the Lord stands by us and gives us courage, direction, and encouragement.

Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world…

Refusing to become like the culture is an intentional decision. Lord, give me resolve to take a stand every day!

Acts 22:10 “‘What shall I do, Lord?’ I asked.“ ‘Get up,’ the Lord said, ‘and go into Damascus. There you will be told all that you have been assigned to do.’ 

God gives us the information we need in His own timeframe. Father, may I have strong faith that You are in control and know what is best for my life.

Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.

Giving my whole self to God is easier if I remember God is merciful.