Read Acts 18:4-6, 9-11 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
1. How did the Jews respond to Paul’s message?
2. What did the Lord tell Paul to do in response?
3. How long did Paul stay in Corinth?
Reflect
Everywhere he traveled, Paul told the story of Jesus. Many people responded in faith, but many insulted, ridiculed, and rejected him. This is exactly how the Jews responded in Corinth. Later one night, God spoke directly to Paul, encouraging him to not stay silent, to keep speaking out.
That’s the same encouragement God gives us today. When it comes to telling the story, we might know the mission and the message. We might even know some of the methods to use. But sometimes we just don’t have the courage. That’s when we have to remember that Jesus fuels our motivation. God promises to be with us, so we don’t have to be afraid, intimidated, or discouraged. There are people who belong to God but just don’t know it yet. They need to hear the story, so let’s tell it.
Do you find yourself afraid to speak out sometimes? What steps could you take to be reminded that Jesus fuels your motivation and God is always with you? Who else could you link arms with to encourage and motivate each other to keep telling the story of Jesus?
Respond
Pray through today’s reading, reflecting on the questions just posed. What do you think God is prompting you to do in response? Write it down, share it with a friend, and take a step to start making it happen.