Acts 19
As Paul continues his mission in Ephesus, he baptized believers in the name of Jesus (vs John), placed hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit (v1-4). Perhaps envious of how God was using Paul (v11-12), some sought glory for themselves but this backfired (v13-17). This is a powerful example of how we must seek God's glory first, and respect His name vs using it for worldly gain. John Piper also instructs us how fear and respect for God should be used as a preservative for our faith - that we not run away from God as His power may be used for our destruction.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is always with me...watching over me and protecting me - thank You Jesus! I am undeserving of Your love and protection. I sin...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and help me love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
When this became known to the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, they were all seized with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor. v17
As Paul continues his mission in Ephesus, he baptized believers in the name of Jesus (vs John), placed hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit (v1-4). Perhaps envious of how God was using Paul (v11-12), some sought glory for themselves but this backfired (v13-17). This is a powerful example of how we must seek God's glory first, and respect His name vs using it for worldly gain. John Piper also instructs us how fear and respect for God should be used as a preservative for our faith - that we not run away from God as His power may be used for our destruction.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is always with me...watching over me and protecting me - thank You Jesus! I am undeserving of Your love and protection. I sin...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and help me love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
