Monday, October 10 – Acts 11:27-30

Now at this time, some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. One of them, named Agabus, stood up and indicated by the Spirit that there would definitely be a severe famine all over the world. And this took place in the reign of Claudius. And to the extent that any of the disciples had means, each of them determined to send a contribution for the relief of the brothers and sisters living in Judea. And they did this, sending it with Barnabas and Saul to the elders.

 

When deciding what food to buy from the store, you might consider the nutritional value, taste, or when it will likely be eaten. You may think less about the hands that had to gather the food, prepare the packaging, and send it your way. Those steps of the food industry are some that many of us never witness but we could not live without. Their contribution to our daily bread is invaluable. The gift of relief from famine in today’s passage was not a one-time gift from a generous farmer; it was a corporate effort of every believer, determined to serve those around them. To the extent that any of them had means, they gave.

 

What would it look like if we served wholeheartedly this way? Instead of complaining about problems in our world, what if we asked God how He would have us serve? Barnabas and Saul took a break from the important work of teaching and signs to do another important work—act as the hands and feet of Jesus to a world that was suffering. It would have been easy to hear news of worldwide famine and be overwhelmed to the point of despair or to turn their focus inward to how they would personally survive the famine. The disciples did not allow the overwhelming news to keep them from taking the next step toward change nor did they let their own selfish considerations keep them from taking the next step. If you ever feel the weight of the world on your shoulders about a particular issue, maybe God has burdened your heart for a greater purpose. Where might God be wanting to use you today?

 

• What are some things that make your heart break? How could God use you to serve in those areas?
• What are some things you can give to others in this season of life?
• Pray and tell God about the things in the world that frustrate or hurt you. Ask Him to help you see the needs He has equipped you to serve.