Multiplying Grace
Friday, September 8
Acts 16:25-26 NKJV
But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed.
Devotion
Our grace was given to us to show other people what God has done and what He can do. Paul and Silas weren’t willing to keep their grace to themselves, and amazing things resulted!
Their fellow prisoners were listening, all the prisoners’ shackles were undone, the prison doors were opened, and people gave their lives to Christ. Think about how those around us could be affected if we, like Paul and Silas, weren’t willing to keep our grace to ourselves. People are listening and watching to see how we as Christians will respond to situations, especially difficult situations. It’s during those difficult times we need to continue to pray and praise God.
We need to continue to proclaim God’s goodness and the grace He has given. We need to be willing to let grace overflow to all those around us.
Today’s Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your power to break spiritual and physical chains, which remains the same yesterday, today, and forever. I confess my tendency to worry rather than to pray and sing to Jesus in moments of stress. Help me remember the testimony of Paul and Silas, how the prison doors flew open, and everyone's chains came loose at the moment I need to. Build my faith and bring similar miracles. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen
Apply It Today
Think of a past crisis in your life. What was your response? If you did not respond with grace, confess that to our Heavenly Father and receive forgiveness. Resolve that next time you will pause to pray and worship, silently if necessary, before you react in a way that may be natural in the situation but is ungodly.
Resources:
- Listen to "Where Is God", and let it encourage you to make the needed changes in order to restore your intimate relationship with God.
- Are you ready for your next step in growing closer to God? Sign up here for Next Steps.