Daily Reading

Acts 16:16-40; Psalm 51:1-19; Proverbs 10:31-23

Paul & Silas are thrown into prison for delivering a girl from demonic possession. Sometimes the right thing to do isn't the most popular thing to do. Especially when the right thing causes discomfort for the greedy and self-involved.

So, did Paul & Silas let a little thing like a beating & jail get them down? No, they sang songs of praise & spent time in prayer. A positive attitude is key to a happy life. You know that old saying, "If life gives you lemons, make lemonade?" Well that's exactly how Paul lead his life. Learn from him!

So, God sends an earthquake to release the prisoners, but Paul is attuned to the ways of the Lord, and they stay in the jailhouse. Their obedience opens the door for the salvation of the prison guard & his entire family. Think about the incredible opportunities God gives us every day to witness to others. That wonderful miracle of simply sharing your faith & watching God change some one's life. Watch for these moments! Spend time in prayer, talking to your Heavenly Father so you know His voice & can respond to the opportunities He opens for you.

Finally, the chief magistrates attempt to quietly release Paul & Silas, but Paul holds these men accountable for their actions. This is an important lesson to learn - those in positions of power will be held more accountable for their actions because they influence the actions of others. As a citizen of the United States, take your role seriously. Watch our leaders & hold them accountable for their actions. We have the power of the vote in which to ensure our leaders stand for what is right, not what is popular. Take this responsibility seriously!

Psalm 51 is a wonderful prayer of repentance & relationship. Pray it out loud to God. Make it your prayer.

Proverbs 10:31-32 is all about your tongue. What you say, the words that come out of your mouth display the condition of your heart. What is coming out of your mouth? Do you have some heart cleansing to do?