Tag: Acts

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MY FORMER BOOK / ACTS 1:1-2

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 1:1-2

The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach. 2 Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:

The Unfinished Story: How Jesus Continues His Work Through You

“In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen.” — Acts 1:1-2

When Luke penned the opening lines of the Book of Acts, he dropped a subtle yet life-changing truth in the phrase: “all that Jesus began to do and to teach.”

If Luke’s Gospel was just the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, it means the story didn’t end when Christ ascended to heaven. Instead, the Book of Acts opens the second chapter of an ongoing mission. Jesus continues to work, speak, and transform lives today—and He does it directly through His followers.

The Continuation of the Gospel

In Luke’s Gospel, we see the blueprint of Jesus’ earthly life. But in Acts, often called “The Acts of the Holy Spirit,” we see that same life reproduced in the early Church. Empowered by the same Holy Spirit that characterized Jesus’ ministry, ordinary believers began to spread the same message, perform the same miracles, and live out the same sacrificial love.

As true followers of Christ, we are part of a worldwide, interconnected community. We are the hands and feet through which the Holy Spirit reproduces the life of Jesus on earth today.

Why the History of Acts Matters to Us Today

Luke’s inspired historical record isn’t just an ancient textbook; it is alive, relevant, and filled with divine purpose. All of God’s written Word is highly beneficial for our modern lives for two distinct reasons:

  • Scripture is Divinely Inspired: As 2 Timothy 3:16 declares, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” The historical accounts in Acts are carefully preserved by God to build our faith.
  • Historical Accounts Serve as Patterns: The Apostle Paul notes that historical biblical accounts are given specifically as examples with practical and spiritual relevance for us today (1 Corinthians 10:11, Romans 15:4). If Old Testament history serves to instruct us, the New Testament record of the early church provides a direct roadmap for how we are called to live.

The book of Luke showed us the Savior. The book of Acts shows us the Savior at work through His people. You are a living page in that continuing story. Guided by the Holy Spirit, your daily life can echo the very ministry that Jesus began two thousand years ago.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the living power of Your Word. We praise You that the story of Jesus did not end at the ascension, but continues even now through Your Church. Holy Spirit, we ask that You fill us afresh today. Reproduce the life, love, and power of Jesus Christ in and through us. Help us to share His truth boldly, serve others selflessly, and live as faithful witnesses of His grace. May our lives be a continuation of the good news to a world that desperately needs Him. In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • 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

  1. I WAS NOT DISOBEDIENT / ACTS 26:19
  2. PAUL’S GOD-GIVEN COMMISSION / ACTS 26:17-18
  3. HIS WITNESSES TO OUR PEOPLE / ACTS 13:31
  4. SAUL WHO WAS CALLED PAUL – PAUL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT /ACTS 13:9
  5. LAID THEIR HANDS ON THEM / ACTS 6:6
  6. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 13:52
  7. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 9:17
  8. MY SERVANTS, BOTH MEN AND WOMEN – IN THOSE DAYS / ACTS 2:18
  9. HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM AS HE HAD COME ON US AT THE BEGINNING / ACTS 11:15
  10. THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD / ACTS 2:33
  11. WASH YOUR SINS AWAY / ACTS 22:16
  12. PROVE THEIR REPENTANCE BY THEIR DEEDS / ACTS 26:20
  13. YOU WILL RECEIVE POWER / ACTS 1:8
  14. SUFFER FOR MY NAME / ACTS 9:16
  15. THEY BELIEVED … THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST / ACTS 8:12
  16. WHEN THEY HEARD THIS / ACTS 11:18
  17. THE HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM / ACTS 19:6
  18. SPEAKING IN TONGUES / ACTS 10:46
  19. GOD DOES NOT SHOW FAVORITISM / ACTS 10:34
  20. THEY RECEIVED THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 8:17
  21. HAD NOT YET COME UPON ANY OF THEM / ACTS 8:15-16
  22. THEY WERE ALL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 4:31
  23. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 2:4
  24. THEY WERE BAPTIZED / ACTS 19:15
  25. THIS CORRUPT GENERATION / ACTS 2:40
  26. REPENT AND BE BAPTIZED / ACTS 2:38
  27. FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN AND FOR ALL / ACTS 2:39
  28. WORSHIPING … AND FASTING / ACTS 13:2
  29. KEPT BY THE HOLY SPIRIT FROM PREACHING / ACTS 16:6
  30. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion.
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

Guided By Grace
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I WAS NOT DISOBEDIENT / ACTS 26:19

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 26:19

Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:

I WAS NOT DISOBEDIENT / ACTS 26:19

Paul’s spiritual conversion (salvation, life transformation) to faith in Christ occurred on his journey to Damascus. From that moment on, he recognized Jesus as Savior and Lord – the Forgiver of his sins and Leader of his life – and dedicated his life to obeying the Lord (Romans 1:5).

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • 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

  1. PAUL’S GOD-GIVEN COMMISSION / ACTS 26:17-18
  2. HIS WITNESSES TO OUR PEOPLE / ACTS 13:31
  3. SAUL WHO WAS CALLED PAUL – PAUL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT /ACTS 13:9
  4. LAID THEIR HANDS ON THEM / ACTS 6:6
  5. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 13:52
  6. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 9:17
  7. MY SERVANTS, BOTH MEN AND WOMEN – IN THOSE DAYS / ACTS 2:18
  8. HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM AS HE HAD COME ON US AT THE BEGINNING / ACTS 11:15
  9. THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD / ACTS 2:33
  10. WASH YOUR SINS AWAY / ACTS 22:16
  11. PROVE THEIR REPENTANCE BY THEIR DEEDS / ACTS 26:20
  12. YOU WILL RECEIVE POWER / ACTS 1:8
  13. SUFFER FOR MY NAME / ACTS 9:16
  14. THEY BELIEVED … THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST / ACTS 8:12
  15. WHEN THEY HEARD THIS / ACTS 11:18
  16. THE HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM / ACTS 19:6
  17. SPEAKING IN TONGUES / ACTS 10:46
  18. GOD DOES NOT SHOW FAVORITISM / ACTS 10:34
  19. THEY RECEIVED THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 8:17
  20. HAD NOT YET COME UPON ANY OF THEM / ACTS 8:15-16
  21. THEY WERE ALL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 4:31
  22. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 2:4
  23. THEY WERE BAPTIZED / ACTS 19:15
  24. THIS CORRUPT GENERATION / ACTS 2:40
  25. REPENT AND BE BAPTIZED / ACTS 2:38
  26. FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN AND FOR ALL / ACTS 2:39
  27. WORSHIPING … AND FASTING / ACTS 13:2
  28. KEPT BY THE HOLY SPIRIT FROM PREACHING / ACTS 16:6
  29. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion.
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

Guided By Grace
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HIS WITNESSES TO OUR PEOPLE / ACTS 13:31

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 13:13
And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people.

HIS WITNESSES TO OUR PEOPLE / ACTS 13:31

A witness (Greek martus) is “one who testifies by actions or words to the truth.” Christian witnesses are those who confirm and testify to the spiritually saving work of Jesus Christ by word, actions, lifestyle and, if necessary, even death. Witnessing involves seven principles:

  1. Christian witnessing is the responsibility of all followers of Christ (Acts 1:8; Matthew 4:19; Matthew 28:19 Matthew 28:20).
  2. Christian witnesses must be missionary-minded (Acts 13:2; Acts 2:3), determined to communicate the massage of Christ to all people of all cultures in all nations – to the ends of the earth (Acts 11:18; Acts 13:2; Acts 2:3; Acts 2:4; Acts 26:18; Matthew 28:19; Matthew 19:20; Luke 24:47).
  3. Christian witnesses speak mainly about the meaning of Christ’s life, death, resurrection, saving power and promised gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:32, Acts 2:38; Acts 2:39; Acts 3:15; Acts 10:39-41, 43: Acts 18:5; Acts 26:16; 1 Corinthians 15:1-8).
  4. Christian witnesses must allow the Holy Spirit to work through them to bring conviction (to expose and convince people of their spiritual need). This concerns their guilt in regard to sin against God, their need for a right relationship with Him through Christ and their ultimate accountability to God (Acts 2:37: Acts 2:38; Acts 2:39; Acts 2:40; Acts 7:51; Acts 7:53-54; 24:24-25; John 16:8). This kind of God-inspired witness will challenge people to respond to God with faith and to accept a personal relationship with Him (Acts 2:41; Acts 4:33; Acts 6:7; Acts 11:21).
  5. Christian witnesses at times will suffer (Acts 7:57-60; Acts 22:20; 2 Corinthians 11:23-29). The word “martyr” (one who dies for a cause of belief) comes from the Greek word for witness. Discipleship involves commitment, no matter what the cost.
  6. Christian witnessing must involve separation from the ungodly practices of the world (Acts 2:40). It must stem from a life that follows God’s standards of right and wrong (Romans 14:17) and relies totally on the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:29; Acts 4:29 – Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your … (biblestudytools.com); Acts 4:31; Acts 4:33). As a result, God’s presence and power will be obvious in the life of the witness (1 Corinthians 2:4).
  7. Christian witnessing is prophetic in that it involves using one’s voice to honor God through the power (Acts1:8) and inspiration (Acts 2:4; Acts 4:8) of the Holy Spirit.

Bible Study Tools I Use

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

  1. SAUL WHO WAS CALLED PAUL – PAUL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT /ACTS 13:9
  2. LAID THEIR HANDS ON THEM / ACTS 6:6
  3. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 13:52
  4. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 9:17
  5. MY SERVANTS, BOTH MEN AND WOMEN – IN THOSE DAYS / ACTS 2:18
  6. HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM AS HE HAD COME ON US AT THE BEGINNING / ACTS 11:15
  7. THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD / ACTS 2:33
  8. WASH YOUR SINS AWAY / ACTS 22:16
  9. PROVE THEIR REPENTANCE BY THEIR DEEDS / ACTS 26:20
  10. YOU WILL RECEIVE POWER / ACTS 1:8
  11. SUFFER FOR MY NAME / ACTS 9:16
  12. THEY BELIEVED … THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST / ACTS 8:12
  13. WHEN THEY HEARD THIS / ACTS 11:18
  14. THE HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM / ACTS 19:6
  15. SPEAKING IN TONGUES / ACTS 10:46
  16. GOD DOES NOT SHOW FAVORITISM / ACTS 10:34
  17. THEY RECEIVED THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 8:17
  18. HAD NOT YET COME UPON ANY OF THEM / ACTS 8:15-16
  19. THEY WERE ALL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 4:31
  20. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 2:4
  21. THEY WERE BAPTIZED / ACTS 19:15
  22. THIS CORRUPT GENERATION / ACTS 2:40
  23. REPENT AND BE BAPTIZED / ACTS 2:38
  24. FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN AND FOR ALL / ACTS 2:39
  25. WORSHIPING … AND FASTING / ACTS 13:2
  26. KEPT BY THE HOLY SPIRIT FROM PREACHING / ACTS 16:6
  27. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion.
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

GUIDED BY GRACE
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SAUL WHO WAS ALSO CALLED PAUL – PAUL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 13:9

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 13:9

Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him,

SAUL WHO WAS ALSO CALLED PAUL – PAUL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 13:9

SAUL WHO WAS ALSO CALLED PAUL

Saul was a Jewish name, a form of the Hebrew Sha’ul, meaning “asked for.” Paul is a form of the Latin Paulus, meaning “little.” After Paul received a fresh and special filling of the Holy Spirit he became a senior leader of the mission to the Gentiles (those of all nations who are not Israelite or Jewish). This ministry among the Gentiles may be the reason he chose to be known by his Roman name, Paul. Some commentators suggest that because Paul did not want to have a following or a church to be based around himself, he wanted to be known as “the little one.” He wanted to honor and exalt Christ and keep him at the center of the church’s attention – which Paul certainly did.

PAUL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT

PAUL, FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT

One may already be baptized in the Spirit, as was Paul (Acts 9:17), yet in times of special need may also receive fresh fillings with the Spirit. Such repeated fillings are necessary,

  1. In confronting opposition to Christian ministry (Acts 4:8; Acts 4:12).
  2. In advancing the massage of Christ (Acts 4:8; Acts 4:31).
  3. In directly challenging Satan’s activity (Acts 13:9; Acts 13:52). Repeated and ongoing fillings with the Spirit should be the normal experience for all Christians who are baptized in the Holy Spirit.

Bible Study Tools I Use

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

  1. LAID THEIR HANDS ON THEM / ACTS 6:6
  2. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 13:52
  3. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 9:17
  4. MY SERVANTS, BOTH MEN AND WOMEN – IN THOSE DAYS / ACTS 2:18
  5. HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM AS HE HAD COME ON US AT THE BEGINNING / ACTS 11:15
  6. THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD / ACTS 2:33
  7. WASH YOUR SINS AWAY / ACTS 22:16
  8. PROVE THEIR REPENTANCE BY THEIR DEEDS / ACTS 26:20
  9. YOU WILL RECEIVE POWER / ACTS 1:8
  10. SUFFER FOR MY NAME / ACTS 9:16
  11. THEY BELIEVED … THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST / ACTS 8:12
  12. WHEN THEY HEARD THIS / ACTS 11:18
  13. THE HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM / ACTS 19:6
  14. SPEAKING IN TONGUES / ACTS 10:46
  15. GOD DOES NOT SHOW FAVORITISM / ACTS 10:34
  16. THEY RECEIVED THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 8:17
  17. HAD NOT YET COME UPON ANY OF THEM / ACTS 8:15-16
  18. THEY WERE ALL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 4:31
  19. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 2:4
  20. THEY WERE BAPTIZED / ACTS 19:15
  21. THIS CORRUPT GENERATION / ACTS 2:40
  22. REPENT AND BE BAPTIZED / ACTS 2:38
  23. FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN AND FOR ALL / ACTS 2:39
  24. WORSHIPING … AND FASTING / ACTS 13:2
  25. KEPT BY THE HOLY SPIRIT FROM PREACHING / ACTS 16:6
  26. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion.
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

GUIDED BY GRACE HOME
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LAID THEIR HANDS ON THEM / ACTS 6:6

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 6:6

Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.

Set Apart to Serve: The Power of Laying on of Hands in Acts 6:6

In the bustling days of the early church, growth brought great joy—but it also brought practical challenges. As the number of disciples multiplied, a need arose for faithful administration to ensure no one was overlooked. The solution? Setting apart seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom.

Acts 6:6 records the pivotal moment these men were presented to the apostles: “They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.”

This sacred act of laying on of hands holds deep biblical significance. Far from a mere ritual, it is a foundational practice in the New Testament.

Five Ways the Laying on of Hands is Used in Scripture

  1. Miracles of Healing: Bringing physical restoration to the sick (Acts 28:8; Matthew 5:23; Mark 6:5).
  2. Blessing Others: Bestowing divine favor and prayer over someone (Matthew 19:13, 15).
  3. Baptism in the Holy Spirit: Welcoming believers into the empowering presence of the Spirit (Acts 8:17, 19; Acts 19:6).
  4. Commissioning for Specific Work: Officially assigning people to distinct responsibilities (Acts 6:6; Acts 13:3; 1 Timothy 5:22).
  5. Conveying or Recognizing Spiritual Gifts: Affirming the God-given abilities of believers through church leaders (1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6).

Servant Leadership and Accountability

In Acts 6, this laying on of hands was directly linked to commissioning. The seven men were chosen to “wait on” tables—a phrase derived from the same Greek root that gives us the word deacon, meaning minister or servant.

When the apostles laid hands on these seven servants, it represented two powerful realities:

  • Public Recognition: It was a collective testimony from the church, affirming that these men possessed proven godly character, wisdom, and faithfulness to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
  • Sacred Consecration: It was an act of setting them apart, dedicating them wholly to God’s work, and confirming their willingness to accept their responsibilities.

Crucially, this physical act was never detached from prayer. The laying on of hands does not mean the person ministering holds the power. Instead, paired with prayer, it keeps the focus entirely on God as the true source of all spiritual gifts, blessings, and assignments.

Today, whether we are called to lead, teach, or serve behind the scenes, we are all invited to step into our roles with the same humility and dedication as the early deacons.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the beautiful blueprint of community and leadership You have given us in Your Word. We thank You for the gift of spiritual leaders and servants who dedicate their lives to building up Your Church.

Lord, keep us mindful that every good gift and every calling comes directly from You. Help us to value the spirit of a servant, remembering that to minister is to love and care for Your people. We pray for those who have been set apart for specific tasks in the ministry today; grant them wisdom, endurance, and an abundance of Your Holy Spirit.

Search our hearts, Lord, and help us to live lives of proven character and faithfulness. Whatever work You place before us today, may we do it with joy, humility, and the strength that You provide. We focus our eyes on You, our ultimate source of healing, empowerment, and grace.

In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

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

  1. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 13:52
  2. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 9:17
  3. MY SERVANTS, BOTH MEN AND WOMEN – IN THOSE DAYS / ACTS 2:18
  4. HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM AS HE HAD COME ON US AT THE BEGINNING / ACTS 11:15
  5. THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD / ACTS 2:33
  6. WASH YOUR SINS AWAY / ACTS 22:16
  7. PROVE THEIR REPENTANCE BY THEIR DEEDS / ACTS 26:20
  8. YOU WILL RECEIVE POWER / ACTS 1:8
  9. SUFFER FOR MY NAME / ACTS 9:16
  10. THEY BELIEVED … THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST / ACTS 8:12
  11. WHEN THEY HEARD THIS / ACTS 11:18
  12. THE HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM / ACTS 19:6
  13. SPEAKING IN TONGUES / ACTS 10:46
  14. GOD DOES NOT SHOW FAVORITISM / ACTS 10:34
  15. THEY RECEIVED THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 8:17
  16. HAD NOT YET COME UPON ANY OF THEM / ACTS 8:15-16
  17. THEY WERE ALL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 4:31
  18. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 2:4
  19. THEY WERE BAPTIZED / ACTS 19:15
  20. THIS CORRUPT GENERATION / ACTS 2:40
  21. REPENT AND BE BAPTIZED / ACTS 2:38
  22. FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN AND FOR ALL / ACTS 2:39
  23. WORSHIPING … AND FASTING / ACTS 13:2
  24. KEPT BY THE HOLY SPIRIT FROM PREACHING / ACTS 16:6
  25. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

GUIDED BY GRACE
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FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 13:52

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 13:52
And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost.

FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 13:52

The form of the Greek verb translated “filled” expresses continued action in past time. The disciples were being continually filled and empowered day by day. That is, they were like containers filled with fresh water, which were continually having more fresh water poured into them so that they overflowed and affected everything around them. The Spirit’s fullness is not merely a one-time initial experience, but rather a life of fresh and renewed fillings that give God’s people the ability to accomplish specific tasks, meet specific refreshment to others (Ephesians 5:18).

Bible Study Tools I Use

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

  1. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 9:17
  2. MY SERVANTS, BOTH MEN AND WOMEN – IN THOSE DAYS / ACTS 2:18
  3. HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM AS HE HAD COME ON US AT THE BEGINNING / ACTS 11:15
  4. THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD / ACTS 2:33
  5. WASH YOUR SINS AWAY / ACTS 22:16
  6. PROVE THEIR REPENTANCE BY THEIR DEEDS / ACTS 26:20
  7. YOU WILL RECEIVE POWER / ACTS 1:8
  8. SUFFER FOR MY NAME / ACTS 9:16
  9. THEY BELIEVED … THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST / ACTS 8:12
  10. WHEN THEY HEARD THIS / ACTS 11:18
  11. THE HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM / ACTS 19:6
  12. SPEAKING IN TONGUES / ACTS 10:46
  13. GOD DOES NOT SHOW FAVORITISM / ACTS 10:34
  14. THEY RECEIVED THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 8:17
  15. HAD NOT YET COME UPON ANY OF THEM / ACTS 8:15-16
  16. THEY WERE ALL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 4:31
  17. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 2:4
  18. THEY WERE BAPTIZED / ACTS 19:15
  19. THIS CORRUPT GENERATION / ACTS 2:40
  20. REPENT AND BE BAPTIZED / ACTS 2:38
  21. FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN AND FOR ALL / ACTS 2:39
  22. WORSHIPING … AND FASTING / ACTS 13:2
  23. KEPT BY THE HOLY SPIRIT FROM PREACHING / ACTS 16:6
  24. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion.
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

GUIDED BY GRACE HOME
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FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 9:17

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 9:17

And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.

The Transformation of Paul: Filled with the Holy Spirit

Three days after his supernatural encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, Paul’s life changed forever. He had surrendered his life to Christ in absolute obedience, but his transformation was not yet complete. In Acts 9:17, Ananias lays hands on him, and Paul is filled with the Holy Spirit.

This pivotal moment beautifully parallels the experience of the disciples at Pentecost. First, Paul experienced a new spiritual birth and was saved. Then, he was powerfully filled with the Holy Spirit.

While Luke does not explicitly state in this passage that Paul spoke in tongues at that exact moment, the biblical pattern strongly suggests it. Throughout the New Testament, being filled with the Spirit routinely resulted in believers speaking in unlearned languages as the Spirit enabled them (Acts 2:4; Acts 10:45-46; 19:6). Furthermore, Paul himself later wrote to the Corinthians, “I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you” (1 Corinthians 14:18).

Paul’s story reminds us that salvation is just the beginning. God desires to fill every believer with His Holy Spirit, empowering us with spiritual gifts to boldly live out our calling.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the powerful example of Paul’s transformation. Just as You saved him and filled him with Your Holy Spirit, we ask that You do a fresh work in our hearts today. Forgive us for where we have relied on our own strength. We surrender our lives afresh to You.

Holy Spirit, we invite You to fill us to overflowing. Grant us the spiritual gifts, boldness, and speech necessary to witness for You and build up Your church. Let our lives reflect Your power and grace every single day.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

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

  1. MY SERVANTS, BOTH MEN AND WOMEN – IN THOSE DAYS / ACTS 2:18
  2. HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM AS HE HAD COME ON US AT THE BEGINNING / ACTS 11:15
  3. THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD / ACTS 2:33
  4. WASH YOUR SINS AWAY / ACTS 22:16
  5. PROVE THEIR REPENTANCE BY THEIR DEEDS / ACTS 26:20
  6. YOU WILL RECEIVE POWER / ACTS 1:8
  7. SUFFER FOR MY NAME / ACTS 9:16
  8. THEY BELIEVED … THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST / ACTS 8:12
  9. WHEN THEY HEARD THIS / ACTS 11:18
  10. THE HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM / ACTS 19:6
  11. SPEAKING IN TONGUES / ACTS 10:46
  12. GOD DOES NOT SHOW FAVORITISM / ACTS 10:34
  13. THEY RECEIVED THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 8:17
  14. HAD NOT YET COME UPON ANY OF THEM / ACTS 8:15-16
  15. THEY WERE ALL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 4:31
  16. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 2:4
  17. THEY WERE BAPTIZED / ACTS 19:15
  18. THIS CORRUPT GENERATION / ACTS 2:40
  19. REPENT AND BE BAPTIZED / ACTS 2:38
  20. FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN AND FOR ALL / ACTS 2:39
  21. WORSHIPING … AND FASTING / ACTS 13:2
  22. KEPT BY THE HOLY SPIRIT FROM PREACHING / ACTS 16:6
  23. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

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MY SERVANTS, BOTH MEN AND WOMEN – IN THOSE DAYS / ACTS 2:18

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:18

And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:

Empowered Together: The Lasting Promise of Acts 2:18

When the Holy Spirit fell on the Day of Pentecost, it wasn’t a exclusive event meant for a select few. It was the ignition of a new era. In Acts 2:18, Peter quotes the prophet Joel to declare a radical shift in how God empowers His people:

“Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.”

Acts 2:18 breaks down traditional barriers and establishes two powerful truths for our faith journey today.

My Servants, Both Men and Women

The baptism in the Holy Spirit is designed for those who already belong to God’s kingdom. According to Joel’s prophecy, this empowering gift is for the “born-again” followers of Christ (John 3:3-6). It is not a reward for the elite; it is a promise for the devoted.

  • Complete Equality: The Holy Spirit makes no distinction between male and female.
  • Universal Access: Every person who has surrendered their life to Jesus is an eligible vessel.
  • Shared Ministry: Both men and women are uniquely gifted to speak truth and advance the Gospel.

If you belong to God, this promise belongs to you. You are chosen, called, and qualified by the Spirit to serve.

In Those Days: A Promise for Right Now

When Peter used the phrase “in those days,” he wasn’t referring to a single 24-hour event on Pentecost. He was launching the church age. This age spans the entire period between Christ’s first coming and His glorious second coming.

  • No Expiration Date: The supernatural signs, gifts, and empowering of the Spirit were not limited to the early church.
  • The Church Age: We are living in the very timeline Peter prophesied about.
  • Active Power: The exact same power that raised Christ from the dead is available to believers today.

The outpouring did not stop in the upper room. God is still generously sending His Spirit to fill, empower, and live through His followers right now, in our present day.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible gift of Your Holy Spirit. Thank You for breaking down barriers and calling both men and women to be Your hands and feet on this earth. We recognize that we are living in the days of Your poured-out Spirit. Fill us afresh today. Empower us with supernatural boldness, wisdom, and love so that we can faithfully serve Your kingdom. May our lives reflect Your power to the world around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

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

  1. HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM AS HE HAD COME ON US AT THE BEGINNING / ACTS 11:15
  2. THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD / ACTS 2:33
  3. WASH YOUR SINS AWAY / ACTS 22:16
  4. PROVE THEIR REPENTANCE BY THEIR DEEDS / ACTS 26:20
  5. YOU WILL RECEIVE POWER / ACTS 1:8
  6. SUFFER FOR MY NAME / ACTS 9:16
  7. THEY BELIEVED … THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST / ACTS 8:12
  8. WHEN THEY HEARD THIS / ACTS 11:18
  9. THE HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM / ACTS 19:6
  10. SPEAKING IN TONGUES / ACTS 10:46
  11. GOD DOES NOT SHOW FAVORITISM / ACTS 10:34
  12. THEY RECEIVED THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 8:17
  13. HAD NOT YET COME UPON ANY OF THEM / ACTS 8:15-16
  14. THEY WERE ALL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 4:31
  15. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 2:4
  16. THEY WERE BAPTIZED / ACTS 19:15
  17. THIS CORRUPT GENERATION / ACTS 2:40
  18. REPENT AND BE BAPTIZED / ACTS 2:38
  19. FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN AND FOR ALL / ACTS 2:39
  20. WORSHIPING … AND FASTING / ACTS 13:2
  21. KEPT BY THE HOLY SPIRIT FROM PREACHING / ACTS 16:6
  22. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

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HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM AS HE HAD COME ON US AT THE BEGINNING / ACTS 11:15

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 11:15
And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning.

HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM AS HE HAD COME ON US AT THE BEGINNING / ACTS 11:15

The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (when God generously sent His Spirit to fill and empower His followers, Acts 2:4) had set a pattern for receiving the Spirit from that point on. The baptism in the Spirit would involve a noticeable transformation in the individual from the inside out, including an expression of increased joy, Spirit-inspired praise in tongues (a language not learned by the speaker) and boldness to speak about Christ (Acts 2:4; Acts 4:31; Acts 8:15-19; Acts 10:45-47; Acts 10:46; Acts 19:6). For this reason, when Peter pointed out to the others in Jerusalem that Cornelius’ household had spoken in tongues when they received the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:45-46), the Jews were convinced that God was granting salvation through Christ to the Gentiles (non-Jews, Acts 11:18). We should not assume that baptism in the Spirit has taken place if there is no outward evidence such as speaking in tongues. Nowhere in Acts is the baptism in the Holy Spirit simply assumed by faith or perception without outward evidence (Acts 8:12, Acts 8:16; Acts 19:6).

Bible Study Tools I Use

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

  1. THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD / ACTS 2:33
  2. WASH YOUR SINS AWAY / ACTS 22:16
  3. PROVE THEIR REPENTANCE BY THEIR DEEDS / ACTS 26:20
  4. YOU WILL RECEIVE POWER / ACTS 1:8
  5. SUFFER FOR MY NAME / ACTS 9:16
  6. THEY BELIEVED … THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST / ACTS 8:12
  7. WHEN THEY HEARD THIS / ACTS 11:18
  8. THE HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM / ACTS 19:6
  9. SPEAKING IN TONGUES / ACTS 10:46
  10. GOD DOES NOT SHOW FAVORITISM / ACTS 10:34
  11. THEY RECEIVED THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 8:17
  12. HAD NOT YET COME UPON ANY OF THEM / ACTS 8:15-16
  13. THEY WERE ALL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 4:31
  14. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 2:4
  15. THEY WERE BAPTIZED / ACTS 19:15
  16. THIS CORRUPT GENERATION / ACTS 2:40
  17. REPENT AND BE BAPTIZED / ACTS 2:38
  18. FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN AND FOR ALL / ACTS 2:39
  19. WORSHIPING … AND FASTING / ACTS 13:2
  20. KEPT BY THE HOLY SPIRIT FROM PREACHING / ACTS 16:6
  21. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion.
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

GUIDED BY GRACE HOME
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THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD / ACTS 2:33

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:33

Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

The Power of the Promise: Understanding Acts 2:33

In Acts 2:33, the apostle Peter delivers a powerful declaration to the crowds in Jerusalem: “Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear.”

This single verse serves as the ultimate proof of who Jesus is. The spectacular pouring out of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost was not an accident; it was a visible, audible demonstration that Jesus is the resurrected, living, and exalted Messiah. He has taken the highest place of honor in heaven, sitting at the right hand of God the Father. From this position of supreme authority, He continuously intercedes and pleads the case for His people on earth.

The Continuation of the Anointing

From the moment of His baptism, Jesus walked in the full anointing of the Holy Spirit. As the Christ—the Anointed One—He was perfectly commissioned and empowered to do the Father’s will. Now, from His heavenly throne, Jesus shares that very same power with us. He does not leave us to navigate this world in our own strength. Instead, He sends the exact same Spirit that rested upon Him to fill, equip, and work through everyone who serves Him today.

Empowered for Purpose

Jesus poured out the Holy Spirit to give us an undeniable, comforting sense of His presence. But this divine gift also comes with a sacred purpose. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to boldly continue the work that Jesus started during His earthly ministry. Through the Spirit, we receive the supernatural strength, wisdom, and boldness needed to be His hands and feet in a broken world.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we praise You for the exalted glory of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who sits at Your right hand in highest honor. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for sending the promised Holy Spirit to dwell within us. We ask that You fill us afresh today. Let Your Spirit grant us a profound awareness of Your presence and empower us with the strength and boldness to continue Your work on earth. May our lives honor Your holy name. Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

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

  1. WASH YOUR SINS AWAY / ACTS 22:16
  2. PROVE THEIR REPENTANCE BY THEIR DEEDS / ACTS 26:20
  3. YOU WILL RECEIVE POWER / ACTS 1:8
  4. SUFFER FOR MY NAME / ACTS 9:16
  5. THEY BELIEVED … THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST / ACTS 8:12
  6. WHEN THEY HEARD THIS / ACTS 11:18
  7. THE HOLY SPIRIT CAME ON THEM / ACTS 19:6
  8. SPEAKING IN TONGUES / ACTS 10:46
  9. GOD DOES NOT SHOW FAVORITISM / ACTS 10:34
  10. THEY RECEIVED THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 8:17
  11. HAD NOT YET COME UPON ANY OF THEM / ACTS 8:15-16
  12. THEY WERE ALL FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 4:31
  13. FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / ACTS 2:4
  14. THEY WERE BAPTIZED / ACTS 19:15
  15. THIS CORRUPT GENERATION / ACTS 2:40
  16. REPENT AND BE BAPTIZED / ACTS 2:38
  17. FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN AND FOR ALL / ACTS 2:39
  18. WORSHIPING … AND FASTING / ACTS 13:2
  19. KEPT BY THE HOLY SPIRIT FROM PREACHING / ACTS 16:6
  20. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

GUIDED BY GRACE
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