Following God's Call Without Hesitation

Baptist Daily Devotional
Jun 7
2 min read

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | June 7 2025 | Acts 9:42-43

KEY VERSE:

“Peter stayed in Joppa for some time with a tanner named Simon." Acts 9:43 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

To be settled in unfamiliar territory and among people who are, by Jewish standards, considered unclean, knowing the consequences, can be classified as absolute obedience to God rather than man. This is very difficult to do in most cases because our human mind is limited in its ability to understand the future. This is precisely what Peter chose to do.

Through this act of obedience, God was preparing Peter’s heart for an even greater mission, which was to unfold in the next few days ahead of him. His obedience to stay in an unfamiliar and uncomfortable situation became a foundation for greater breakthroughs in the gospel ministry.

Obedience to God’s call also sometimes requires us to step outside our place of comfort. A place where we will, of necessity, have to depend on God for direction and survival. We may be asked to associate with people or situations that challenge our preconceived notions. But when we follow God’s lead, we become instruments of His work in the world. But we must remember to follow His instructions absolutely and in obedience. Because where grace has not sent you, grace will not sustain you.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

What have you heard God say to you concerning an assignment? If you are sure it is God's voice, then act in obedience and follow the instructions. God is with you all the way. Pray for the courage to obey God’s call.

PRAYER:

Lord, help me to follow Your promptings, even when they lead me to uncomfortable places. Use me to further Your kingdom and to share Your love with all people.” In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 158: 1 Samuel 20 — Jonathan Protects David

DAILY word study: TANNER The Greek word translated as tanner in Acts 9:43 is βυρσεύς (burséus), meaning a person who processes animal hides into leather. This profession, though practical, was considered ceremonially unclean in Jewish society due to frequent contact with dead animals (see Leviticus 11:39-40).

By choosing to stay with a burséus, Peter began crossing traditional boundaries of religious purity. This seemingly small act of obedience positioned him for the greater calling in Acts 10—to take the gospel to Gentiles like Cornelius. Peter’s willingness to stay in a socially uncomfortable place revealed a heart open to God’s greater plan.

Reflection:

Where is God calling you to remain, even if it’s uncomfortable? Don’t run from where He’s working through your presence.