PRAY
Today, let this prayer from St. Patrick serve as a way to focus your mind and heart on your time with Jesus.
Christ with me,
Christ before me,
Christ behind me,
Christ in me,
Christ beneath me,
Christ above me,
Christ on my right,
Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down,
Christ when I sit down,
Christ when I arise,
Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.
BEFORE THE SANHEDRIN
Because of the events we read about in Acts 3 yesterday, Peter and John are now facing some heat in today’s story.
READ AND CONTEMPLATE ACTS 4:1-31
Picture yourself as Peter and John. Remember, the chief priests are the same people who sought out and signed off on the death of Jesus.
What strikes you from the interaction between Peter, John, and these religious leaders?
Peter says a lot of things in this story. What is one line or statement that especially resonates with you and why?
What strikes you from Peter and John’s return trip and report to the believers (in verses 23-31)?
MAKE IT PERSONAL
Verse 13 is deeply powerful and profound:
“When they saw the courage of Peter and John, and realized they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.”
What are qualities or aspects of your life that either make you feel disqualified or you believe others would say disqualify you from truly making an impact in this world?
Fill your name in the blank:
They were astonished and took note that
Do you believe people could say this is true of you? Why or why not?
THE BOTTOM LINE
There are many reasons we could disqualify ourselves from Kingdom work: poor skills, lack of knowledge, past mistakes, doubts, and fears. In reality, these are all qualities John and Peter could claim as well. Yet, they had “been with Jesus,” and that changed everything! As you have spent time with Jesus today, and as you seek to continually follow Him in this Here to There journey, allow Him to be your source of strength and authority as you face this life!