R³ Devotional - Day 332
R³ Devotional - Day 332 - Acts 18
By: Anderson Baptist Church
Paul's encounter in Corinth, a city known for its moral depravity and challenging environment (Acts 18:1-11). Paul was clearly struggling with fear and discouragement, but God intervenes with a powerful, personalized message:
"Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you, for I have many people in this city." (Acts 18:9-10, NASB)
This divine assurance gave Paul the confidence to stay in Corinth for a year and a half, despite the opposition he faced.
Real Life Principle: Presence Over Performance
Our faithfulness in ministry and life is sustained by God's promise of His presence and protection, not by our personal feelings of strength or competence.
Paul was afraid, yet God commanded him to continue speaking. God knew the hearts of the people, declaring, "I have many people in this city." This means our job is simply to be obedient to the call, trusting that God has already prepared the ground and will provide the safety and power necessary for the work. God's presence is the guarantee of our success (in terms of faithfulness, not necessarily worldly results).
Relevant Applications
When Facing Intimidation: We often fear speaking up for our faith, whether in a hostile workplace, a difficult family discussion, or online. The principle here is to shift focus from the size of the opposition to the power of the One who is with us. The command is simply: "Do not be afraid, but go on speaking."
Embracing God's Partnerships: The chapter introduces the vital partnership of Aquila and Priscilla (Acts 18:1-3). Paul didn't work alone; he found fellowship and shared work (tentmaking) with godly believers. We must recognize that God rarely calls us to isolated, lone-wolf ministry. Our work is often strengthened by genuine Christian community and partnership.
The Power of Clarity: Acts 18:24-28 introduces Apollos, a passionate but incomplete preacher. Aquila and Priscilla took him aside and "explained the way of God to him more accurately." This highlights the application of humble, necessary discipleship. We should be open to being corrected and continually discipled, and likewise, gently and clearly disciple others when the opportunity arises.
Ready Action Steps
Here are three practical steps to apply the lessons of Acts 18 to your life today:
Name Your Fear, Claim the Promise Divine Assurance. Identify one area where you are currently holding back out of fear (e.g., sharing the gospel, pursuing a calling, standing against injustice).
Write down Acts 18:10 ("I am with you...") and commit to taking a small, courageous step this week based on that promise.
Invest in a Partnership Community & Support. Identify one Christian friend or small group partner you can share a ministry or spiritual growth goal with. Commit to praying for each other and providing accountability for one month, imitating Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla.
Seek Accurate Knowledge Discipleship
"Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you, for I have many people in this city." (Acts 18:9-10, NASB)
This divine assurance gave Paul the confidence to stay in Corinth for a year and a half, despite the opposition he faced.
Real Life Principle: Presence Over Performance
Our faithfulness in ministry and life is sustained by God's promise of His presence and protection, not by our personal feelings of strength or competence.
Paul was afraid, yet God commanded him to continue speaking. God knew the hearts of the people, declaring, "I have many people in this city." This means our job is simply to be obedient to the call, trusting that God has already prepared the ground and will provide the safety and power necessary for the work. God's presence is the guarantee of our success (in terms of faithfulness, not necessarily worldly results).
Relevant Applications
When Facing Intimidation: We often fear speaking up for our faith, whether in a hostile workplace, a difficult family discussion, or online. The principle here is to shift focus from the size of the opposition to the power of the One who is with us. The command is simply: "Do not be afraid, but go on speaking."
Embracing God's Partnerships: The chapter introduces the vital partnership of Aquila and Priscilla (Acts 18:1-3). Paul didn't work alone; he found fellowship and shared work (tentmaking) with godly believers. We must recognize that God rarely calls us to isolated, lone-wolf ministry. Our work is often strengthened by genuine Christian community and partnership.
The Power of Clarity: Acts 18:24-28 introduces Apollos, a passionate but incomplete preacher. Aquila and Priscilla took him aside and "explained the way of God to him more accurately." This highlights the application of humble, necessary discipleship. We should be open to being corrected and continually discipled, and likewise, gently and clearly disciple others when the opportunity arises.
Ready Action Steps
Here are three practical steps to apply the lessons of Acts 18 to your life today:
Name Your Fear, Claim the Promise Divine Assurance. Identify one area where you are currently holding back out of fear (e.g., sharing the gospel, pursuing a calling, standing against injustice).
Write down Acts 18:10 ("I am with you...") and commit to taking a small, courageous step this week based on that promise.
Invest in a Partnership Community & Support. Identify one Christian friend or small group partner you can share a ministry or spiritual growth goal with. Commit to praying for each other and providing accountability for one month, imitating Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla.
Seek Accurate Knowledge Discipleship
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