Our daily reading plan now enters the Book of Acts in earnest and we’ll spend a few weeks reading and reflecting on the Spirit-empowered mission of the early Church.
Daily Readings: Acts 3 and Psalm 71
I wonder which action demanded more courage from Peter: In Jesus’ name commanding a man who had been lame from birth to walk (v.1-8), or addressing the ensuing crowd with the Gospel in such a confrontational way (v.9-26)? Both carried real risks. But surely the risk of looking foolish if the man refused or failed to get up and walk waned into insignificance compared to the risk of being rejected and beaten up by the crowd, whom he first accused of “disowning the Holy and Righteous One” (v.14) and “killing the author of life” (v.15), and then called to repent and turn from their wicked ways (v.19 & 26) in response to Jesus’ resurrection (v.15). That’s fear-defying RISK!
The same Peter, who had been so afraid of people before being filled with the Holy Spirit, was now completely liberated from the controlling force of that fear. I’m sure he still experienced fear, but the Holy Spirit empowered and enabled him to overcome his fear and step out in obedience to what he sensed the Lord Jesus required of him. Only the Holy Spirit could possibly have brought about such a remarkable transformation!
Life Application: As you go through your day, you are likely to face moments where you hesitate to do what you know Jesus requires of you. In those moments, pray the simple prayer: “Holy Spirit, empower me and give me courage!” And then simply take the first small step of obedience and see what He will do.
Dave's Diary 
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