Blog - Guided By Grace

April 4, 2026April 4, 2026

APOSTLES’ TEACHING … FELLOWSHIP … BREAKING OF BREAD … PRAYER / ACTS 2:42-47

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

APOSTLES’ TEACHING … FELLOWSHIP … BREAKING OF BREAD … PRAYER / ACTS 2:42-47

Many churches today desire to pattern themselves after the New Testament in hopes of experiencing the same power, growth and effectiveness that it had. This passage gives a general overview of the things that gave the New Testament church the ability to experience God’s miraculous power (Acts 2:43) and consistent growth (Acts 2:47). Remarkably, these things were quite plain and practical.

1. Apostles’ Teaching (Acts 2:42). The first Christians were deeply devoted to Christ’s message. For that reason, they paid close attention to those who had been directly commissioned by Jesus to deliver His original message and establish the church. Some of these teachings later became a part of our New Testament Scriptures (God’s inspired and authoritative Word as found in the Bible). As a result of their deep hunger for God’s Word, the early Christians were spiritually nourished and grew strong in their faith. They were a Word-centered church.

2. Fellowship (Greek koinonia; Acts 2:42). Not only were Christ’s followers in the early church devoted to their primary relationship with God, but they also were committed to building open, honest and spiritually encouraging relationships with God’s people (Ephesians 4:3; Ephesians 4:13; Ephesians 4:14). They spent much time together and depended on one another. They were unified in love and purpose. They were a relationship-building church.

3. Breaking of Bread (Acts 2:42, 46). This common expression in Acts and the early church seems to have several applications. It could refer simply to sharing meals in one another’s homes. It could also refer to the agape love meal (1 Corinthians 11:21) or to the Lord’s Supper (communion) itself. This was simply a means of expressing thankfulness toward God and each other. They enjoyed each other’s company and were a caring and sharing community. They were people of gratitude and hospitality.

4. Prayer (Acts 2:42; Acts 1:14; Acts 4:23-31). Prayer was clearly a high priority and a major part of life for the early church. In Acts, where there is much prayer. They recognized prayer as the source of intimacy with God, which gave them sensitivity to His direction and allowed His power to work through them.

As a result of the Christian disciplines mentioned above, the early church experienced the following powerful and effective ministry results:

A. Miraculous Signs and Wonders (Acts 2:43). Miracles were an important aspect of the presence and power of the Holy Spirit among God’s people. These supernatural signs often accompanied their mission to spread Christ’s message to those who did not yet know Him (Acts 3:1-10; 4:30; 5:12-16; 6:8; 8:6).

B. Community and Generosity (Acts 2:44-47). God created people to function and thrive in a community environment – in the right relationship with Him and with others. The early church in Jerusalem experienced a sense of community and purpose that has been experienced by only a few people on the earth. They practiced selfless generosity by sharing their possessions and taking care of one another’s practical needs. Their actions showed their love and gratitude to God.

C. Growth and Discipleship (Acts 2:47). As a result of the early Christians’ faithful devotion to Christ and one another, God honored and blessed them with spiritual and numerical growth. People were coming to know Jesus, growing in their faith and becoming active participants in the church. They were actively and effectively fulfilling Christ’s Great Commission to “go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19).

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog post! May the words inspire and uplift all who read them. Your support and interest mean the world to me, and I’m grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!

Guided By Grace

April 4, 2026April 4, 2026

LORD AND CHRIST / ACTS 2:36

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:36

Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

LORD AND CHRIST / ACTS 2:36

The Greek phrase is kurion kai christon. Jesus as “Lord” means more than “Master.” He is the exalted Lord – Ruler and Leader with authority overall. He is the One we must depend on for spiritual salvation. He is the full revelation of God to humankind (Philippians 2:9). “Christ” is the New Testament name for the Old Testament Messiah, both of which mean “Anointed One” and Savior. The events of Pentecost were evidence on earth that Jesus was now exalted as “Lord and Christ” in heaven.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Guided By Grace

April 4, 2026April 4, 2026

IMPOSSIBLE FOR DEATH TO KEEP ITS HOLD / ACTS 2:24

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:24

Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.

IMPOSSIBLE FOR DEATH TO KEEP ITS HOLD / ACTS 2:24

With God anything is possible. He has control over all things – including life and death. But there is another spiritual reason that death could not hold on to Jesus. It has to do not only with who Jesus is, but how He lived as a human. Jesus’ miraculous resurrection was inevitable, or guaranteed, because death had no claim on Jesus’ life. Death has a claim on all our lives because it is the penalty for sin (Genesis 3:16-19; Romans 6:23). But Jesus lived a sinless life – never rebelling or offending God His Father in any way – so death had no claim on Him. Because death had no right to Jesus’ life, it basically overstepped its bounds and lost its power to keep Him in the grave. It is a spiritual reality that death could not hold on to Jesus. Speaking of His own life Jesus said, “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again” (John 10:18).

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Guided By Grace

April 3, 2026April 3, 2026

THE LAST DAYS / ACTS 2:17

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:17

And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:

THE LAST DAYS / ACTS 2:17

1. In the Old Testament, “the last days” were considered the time when God would act in a powerful way to judge evil and save His people (Isaiah 2:2-21; 3:18 – 4:6; 10:20-23; Hosea 1 – 2; Joel 1 – 3; Amos 8:9-11; 9:9-12).

2. The New Testament reveals that “the last days” began with the first coming of Christ (by birth) and the first outpouring of the Spirit on God’s people. These last days will end with the Lord’s second coming (Mark 1:15; Luke 4:18-21; Hebrews 1:1-2). This specific time is characterized as the age of judgment against evil, authority over demons, opportunity for salvation from the human race and the presence of God’s kingdom (His power, purposes and way of life both on earth presently and into eternity). At the conclusion of this age, the Lord will remove His church from the earth (1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 5:3) and bring His most sever judgments on the world (Matthew 4:21-22; Revelation 6 – 19).

· God’s work in these “last days” will be accomplished by the power of the Spirit (Matthew 12:28).

· “The last days” involve God’s power working through Christ’s followers to invade the realm of Satan, to destroy the devil’s work and to reclaim lives for God. But the warfare has only begun; it is not yet completed. Satan’s evil activity is still present in a powerful and destructive way (Ephesians 6:10-18). Only the second coming of Jesus (when He literally returns to earth at the end of the tribulation period) will bring to an end the activity of evil forces and complete “the last days” (1 Peter 1:3-5; Revelation 19)

· “The last days” represent a time of bold evangelistic ministry that will spread Christ’s message of spiritual salvation to those throughout the world who do not yet have a personal relationship with Him. It is a time of calling everyone to turn from their own rebellious way, to put their faith in Christ and to experience the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8; 2:4, 38-40; Joel 2:28-32). During this time, Christ’s followers must do all they can to communicate and show the saving work of Christ through the power of the Spirit, keeping in mind that a final judgment is coming (Romans 2:5) – “the great and glorious day of the Lord” (Acts 2:20). We must be alert at all times for the day when Christ will return to free His people from the sinful world (John 14:3; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17).

· “The last days” officially bring the active presence and activity of the kingdom of God, which now comes with full power (Luke 11:20). We must experience and use that full power as we face spiritual warfare (2 Corinthians 10:3-5; Ephesians 6:11-12), opposition and suffering because of our devotion to Christ (Matthew 5:10-12; 1 Peter 1:6-7).

SONS AND DAUGHTERS WILL PROPHESY

Peter associates the speaking in other tongues (Acts 2:4,11) with prophecy (Acts 2:17-18). This means that speaking in other tongues is one form of prophesying, which basically is using one’s voice for the service and glory of God under the direct influence of the Holy Spirit. In the book of Acts:

1. The 120 “were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them” (Acts 2:4).

2. The Holy Spirit came on Cornelius and his household, and Peter “heard them speaking in tongues and praising God” (Acts 10:44-47).

3. The disciples at Ephesus, when “the Holy Spirit came on them, spoke in tongues and prophesied (Acts 19:6).

4. Other signs or expressions of the Spirit through Spirit-filled people include prophetic dreams and visions (Acts 2:17; 10:9-23; Joel 2:28).

5. The Spirit will be given to empower all of God’s people (Christ’s followers) without respect to age, gender or status (Acts 2:18).

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Guided By Grace

April 3, 2026April 3, 2026

SPOKEN BY THE PROPHET JOEL / ACTS 2:16

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:16

But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel;

SPOKEN BY THE PROPHET JOEL / ACTS 2:16

The baptism in the Holy Spirit and the spiritual signs and expressions that went along with this experience are a fulfillment of Joel 2:28-29.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Guided By Grace

April 3, 2026April 3, 2026

PETER’S PENTECOST SERMON / ACTS 2:14-40

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:14-40

PETER’S PENTECOST SERMON / ACTS 2:14-40

Peter’s sermon at Pentecost, along with his message in Acts 3:11-26, contains a good pattern for communicating the gospel – the “good news” of forgiveness, new life and an eternal relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ.

1. Jesus is both Lord and Christ – crucified, raided from the dead and exalted with God the Father (Acts 2:22-36; 3:13-15). He is the only one qualified to be Savior (Christ, the Forgiver of our sins) and Lord (the Leader and absolute authority of our lives).

2. Now at the right hand of His Father (the place of highest honor), Jesus Christ has the authority to grant spiritual salvation to people and to pour out the Holy Spirit on all His followers (Acts 2:16-18, 32-33; 3:19).

3. In order to receive spiritual salvation (a personal relationship with God), everyone must place his or her faith in Jesus as Lord and repent of sin (admit and turn from their own God-defying way), then begin following Jesus and His purposes. Baptism in water serves as an outward public testimony to the inward cleansing of spiritual salvation (Acts 21:16; Romans 6:4). Though baptism does not save a person spiritually, it is a clear instruction given in connection with forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:36-38; 3:19). True repentance and faith, however, are the conditions for receiving forgiveness and salvation (Acts 2:38; Mark 16:16).

4. Believers must expect the promised gift of – or baptism in – the Holy Spirit after they have repented and surrendered their lives to Christ (Acts 2:28-39).

5. Those who hear and receive Christ’s message in faith must separate themselves from the corrupt beliefs, behaviors and lifestyles that are common in the world (Acts 2:40; Acts 3:26).

6. Jesus Christ will return to restore God’s kingdom completely (Acts 3:20-21).

Considering Peter’s bold message on the day of Pentecost, notice the difference that the baptism in the Holy Spirit made in his life. Less than two months before, Peter had denied even knowing Jesus (Luke 22:54-62) and had turned away from his few accusers like a coward. But now he boldly confronts thousands – many of whom had demanded Christ’s execution. As a result, three thousand people responded and accepted Christ that day (Acts 2:41).

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Guided By Grace

April 1, 2026April 1, 2026

WINE / ACTS 2:13

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:13

Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine.

WINE / ACTS 2:13

The word used for “sweet wine” (Greek gleukos) normally refers to unfermented (non-alcoholic, non-intoxicating) grape juice. Those ridiculing the disciples may have used this term rather than the common New Testament word for wine (oinos) because they believed that Jesus; disciples used only this type of wine. In addition, on a festival day like this, a typical Jew would not break his overnight fast (time without food) until 10:00 a.m., so it was extremely unlikely that a group of any kind would be drunk at such an early hour. While some outsiders may have truly thought the believers were drunk (Acts 2:14), others were probably being sarcastic when they used the term this way.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Guided By Grace

April 1, 2026April 4, 2026

MUSIC MONDAY APRIL 2026

LISTEN TO MUSIC MONDAY

Looking for worship music? We got you covered! Get your Worship on with Music Monday Brought to you by Jennifer Villareal. Jennifer posts a new song every Monday.

An inspiring way to kick off the week with some uplifting worship tunes! Jennifer Villareal’s “Guided By Grace Music Monday Playlist” on YouTube is a fantastic resource for anyone seeking fresh, faith-filled music to nourish the soul.

You can simply listen to Jennifer’s play list by going to YouTube and clicking on Guided By Grace Music Monday Playlist

What are you waiting for? It’s time to listen to some of the best worship music!

For a full nonstop playlist experience, check out the Guided By Grace top praise and worship songs on YouTube – it’s over 2 hours of continuous gospel hits to keep the worship flowing.

Guided By Grace Music Monday Playlist

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Guided By Grace

April 1, 2026March 29, 2026

A PRAYER FOR APRIL 2026

Welcoming April 2026: Spring Renewal, Laughter, and Fresh Starts

April has arrived, bringing with it the perfect blend of playful energy and meaningful reflection. As the days grow longer and flowers begin to bloom, this month feels like nature’s gentle nudge to shake off winter’s heaviness and embrace renewal.

Whether you’re chasing rainbows after April showers, hunting for Easter eggs, or simply soaking in the warmer air, April 2026 offers something for everyone. From lighthearted pranks to deep awareness days, here’s how to make the most of this vibrant month—plus some ideas to inspire your own spring adventures.

Key Highlights of April 2026

April is packed with observances that mix fun, creativity, and purpose:

April Fools’ Day (April 1): Kick off the month with a harmless prank or a playful “gotcha” moment. It’s a reminder not to take life too seriously.
World Autism Awareness Day (April 2): A chance to learn, support, and celebrate neurodiversity in our communities.
Easter Sunday (April 5): A time for family gatherings, egg hunts, and spring brunches. Even if you’re not religious, it’s a beautiful excuse for fresh flowers and chocolate.
National Pet Day (April 11): Spoil your furry (or scaly) friends with extra playtime or a special treat.
Earth Day (April 22): One of the biggest environmental awareness days of the year—perfect for planting trees, cleaning up local spaces, or switching to more sustainable habits.
World Book Day (April 23): Dive into a new read or share your favorite stories with others.
Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day (April 23): Inspire the next generation by showing them what you do.

Monthly themes to keep in mind:

Stress Awareness Month — Prioritize your mental health with small daily practices.
National Poetry Month — Try writing a short poem or reading one each day.
Autism Acceptance Month — Focus on inclusion and understanding.

5 Ways to Embrace April This Year

Spring Clean Your Space (and Mind)
April showers might keep you indoors some days, so use them wisely. Declutter one drawer or shelf at a time. Pair it with a “brain dump” journal session to clear mental clutter too. A refreshed home often leads to a refreshed outlook.
Get Outside and Move
With milder weather, try a daily walk, hike, or garden session. National Walking Day (early in the month) is a great reminder. Even 20 minutes of fresh air can boost your mood and energy.
Fuel Creativity
National Poetry Month makes April ideal for creative expression. No pressure to be a poet—just jot down observations about blooming trees or spring rain. Or pick up a new hobby like sketching flowers or trying a simple recipe with fresh spring ingredients.
Practice Kindness and Awareness
Use days like Siblings Day (April 10) or Earth Day to connect meaningfully. Send a note to a sibling, volunteer locally, or reduce single-use plastics for the month. Small actions add up.
Laugh More
April Fools’ Day sets the tone, but International Moment of Laughter Day (April 14) and National Humor Month encourage ongoing joy. Watch a comedy, share funny stories with friends, or create your own lighthearted family tradition.

Simple April Bucket List Ideas

Plant something (even herbs in a windowsill pot).
Bake or try a seasonal recipe—think fresh strawberry treats or lemony spring dishes.
Read a book outdoors.
Take photos of spring blooms or rainbows.
Have a “pajama day” at home (National Wear Your Pajamas to Work Day on April 16 is the perfect excuse).
Write a gratitude list focused on renewal and growth.

April 2026 reminds us that change can be gentle and beautiful. After the quiet of winter, spring invites us to bloom in our own way—whether that’s through laughter, creativity, environmental care, or simply slowing down to notice the little joys.

A PRAYER FOR APRIL 2026

Gracious God,

As we step into the beauty of April, we thank You for the gift of new beginnings. Just as the earth awakens with blooming flowers, warmer days, and fresh green growth, renew our hearts and spirits with Your hope and grace. Bless this month with Your presence. Guide our steps with wisdom and peace. Fill our days with joy, strength, and unexpected kindness. Help us release what no longer serves us and embrace the new life You are springing forth. May April bring healing where there is hurt, clarity where there is confusion, and growth in faith, love, and purpose. Protect us, provide for us, and draw us closer to You. In the spirit of resurrection and renewal, we trust in Your faithful love that endures forever.

In Jesus’ Name Amen.

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

What’s one thing you’re looking forward to this April? Share in the comments below—maybe it’s a family Easter tradition, a new book you’re excited about, or a personal goal for the month. Let’s inspire each other as we step into this season of fresh starts.

Happy April!

Guided By Grace

March 30, 2026March 30, 2026

A VIOLENT WIND … AND … TONGUES / ACTS 2:2-3

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:2-3

And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. ³And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.

A VIOLENT WIND … AND … TONGUES / ACTS 2:2-3

The external signs preceding the baptism in the Holy Spirit on this occasion showed that God was present and active in a powerful way. There were times in the Old Testament when fire had accompanied God’s presence (Exodus 3:1-6; Exodus 13:21; 1 Kings 18:38-39). Fire among the believers at this Pentecost may have brought all the more assurance that this was the presence of God. The “fire” may also have symbolized how God’s people were consecrated (set apart, purified) for the work and purpose of bringing honor to Christ (John 16:13; John 16:14) and of witnessing for Him (Acts 1:8; Acts 13:31). This first occasion of the baptism in the Holy Spirit is the only time tongues of fire are mentioned. However, speaking in tongues (using Holy spirit-inspired languages that were not learned) continued to accompany the baptism in the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4; Acts 8:17; Acts 9:17; Acts 10:45- 46; Acts 19:6).

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

Guided By
Grace