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- God Makes the Unclean Clean!
Rev. Enoch Thompson | June 10 2025 | Acts 10:7-16 KEY VERSE: “The voice spoke to him a second time, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." Acts 10:15 (NIV) MESSAGE: From tradition and cultural orientations, we call certain persons unworthy, undeserving, unimportant, and other terms of inferiority. Where this tagging originates from a religious perspective, it seems to stick the most. Gentiles were considered unworthy and unclean people by the Jews. A true and proper Jew would have nothing to do with Gentiles or even the half-breed Samaritans. However, the Gospel of the Kingdom was not intended solely for the Jewish people. The Jews were to be channels through which the Saviour would come, for the benefit of all humanity (Gen. 12:3). The Lord had a hard time getting His immediate Jewish followers to understand that the Kingdom was for all nations and to step out of their Jewish sense of superior worth. Reaching out to the Samaritan and Gentile arenas was a huge challenge for them. The trance of the sheet with all kinds of creatures that the Lord sent to Peter was a parable to awaken Peter to the merciful, generous heart of God to welcome the Gentiles into His family through faith in Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross. God, by His sovereign power and His just decrees, calls what otherwise has been called unclean clean (e.g. Mark 7:19), and when He does so, the “unclean” must become clean. We were unclean by sin, but through the blood of Jesus, we have been called saved, saints, children of God; praise the Lord! FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you recognise the change in your description before God because of the blood of Jesus Christ? You are not a sinner but a saint. Pray for grace to see other people the way God sees them and treat them as such. PRAYER: Dear Lord, please forgive me when I still look at people in their status before they came to you. Help me please to embrace those you have embraced, and also to see myself the way you see me. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 161: 1 Samuel 24 — David Spares Saul DAILY word study: CLEAN The Greek word used in Acts 10:15 is katharizō, meaning to cleanse, to purify, or to declare clean. It is commonly used in ceremonial and moral contexts in the New Testament. Peter’s vision challenged a mindset shaped by ritual purity and national identity. The command “do not call anything impure that God has made clean” wasn’t just about food—it was about people. God was preparing Peter to embrace Gentiles as co-heirs in Christ. The same word katharizō is used when Jesus cleanses lepers (e.g., Matthew 8:3) and hearts (Hebrews 9:14), revealing the full reach of God’s restoring power. Reflection: What God has cleansed—whether a person or a past—must not be labelled otherwise. If God calls it clean, it's clean.
- Good Deeds are Good but not Good Enough
Rev. Enoch Thompson | June 9 2025 | Acts 10:1-8 KEY VERSE: “⁴The angel answered, 'Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God. ⁵ Now send men to Joppa to bring back a man named Simon who is called Peter." Acts 10:4-5 (NIV) MESSAGE: All religions prescribe acts of kindness and promote pious acts of prayer, fasting, meditation and sacrifices of differing kinds. In the case of Cornelius, it was noted about him, “ He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly.” Acts 10:2 (NIV). Not only could this be said about Cornelius and his family, but God Himself, through the angel, confirmed that “ Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God. ” Acts 10:4 (NIV). Certainly, if anyone could be said to be pleasing God, then and now, Centurion Cornelius was one of such. But the text does not stop at the impressive religious nature of Cornelius. God acknowledged the efforts of Cornelius and commended him, only to insist that good deeds that seem so pleasing were not enough to please God and achieve the salvation of the souls of people. This is so since “ All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away ” Isa 64:6 (NIV). Cornelius was to send for Peter, who, as we shall later see in the chapter, would tell Cornelius and his very religious family, relatives, and friends the Good News about the death and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth, and the free salvation available to all who believe in Him (Acts 10:39-43). Good deeds are good, but good deeds without Jesus cannot save the soul of anyone! FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Have you accepted the death of the Lord Jesus Christ on the cross as an act that was done to make you acceptable before God? You need to, so that your good works will begin to count for eternity. PRAYER: Dear God in Heaven, I declare that my good works of piety cannot save my eternal soul. I embrace the death of the Lord Jesus Christ as my only basis of receiving acceptance before you. Please help me share this truth with others, including even the most devout people who do not know Jesus. For His dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 160: 1 Samuel 23 - David Saves Keilah DAILY word study: MEMORIAL OFFERING The term “memorial offering” in Acts 10:4 comes from the Greek word μνημόσυνον (mnēmosynon), which means a remembrance, a memorial, or a record. It conveys the idea of something that causes one to be remembered, especially in the sight of God. Cornelius’ prayers and almsgiving were described as a mnēmosynon—not just good deeds but acts that drew divine attention. His giving and devotion didn’t earn him salvation, but they stood as a testimony before God, prompting divine engagement. This reflects how God remembers even the unseen offerings of the heart when they are done sincerely. But the story also makes clear: remembrance isn’t the same as redemption. Acts of piety are not substitutes for the gospel of grace. Reflection: Are your spiritual actions done to be remembered by others, or by God? And if God remembers them, are you responding to what He asks beyond devotion, like faith in Jesus?
- God is at work
Rev. O.K. Nkrahene | June 8 2025 | Acts 10:1-8 KEY VERSE: “And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon, who is called Peter. 6 He is lodging with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea " Acts 10:5-6 (ESV) MESSAGE: Our reflection today is about the Sovereign God and how closely He interacts with us. He knows everything about His creation - our names and when two people bear the same name, how to differentiate them. He knows where we stay and what we do for a living. Our religious activities are also on His radar. Again, in the execution of His purposes, God appears very strategic. He uses Stephen's persecution to get His people out of Jerusalem, and when Philip is in Samaria, he uses the proximity to get to the Ethiopian Eunuch. In Acts 10, God utilises the relative proximity of Caesarea and Joppa to use Peter to reach Cornelius, approximately thirty-one miles (50 kilometres) away. That also gives the picture of one assignment dovetailing into another. Finally, God's authority is not mistaken by the hearer, hence the word "Lord.” FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: That God knows us and our movements should be reassuring if we're living right. If we are not, then it should be clear that we cannot pull a fast one over God. PRAYER: Lord Jesus, please help me to be strategic in ministry to achieve maximum results. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 159: 1 Samuel 21-22 — David Flees; Saul Slaughters the Priests DAILY word study: BRING The Greek word used for bring in Acts 10:5 is metapempō ( μεταπέμπω ), which means “to send after” or “to summon.” It carries a deliberate sense of action, sending with the intent of bringing someone purposefully into a situation. In this context, the instruction to bring Peter shows that God was not only aware of Peter’s location and associations but was actively guiding Cornelius to seek him out for a divine appointment. It wasn’t a suggestion—it was a command aligned with God’s larger redemptive plan. God orchestrates divine connections. When He says “bring,” it’s because the person being summoned has been prepared. The one being sent is not random—God is always intentional with His messengers. Reflection: What or who is God asking you to “bring” into your life right now to fulfil a purpose bigger than you?
- Following God's Call Without Hesitation
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.
- Faith that Opens Doors
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | June 6 2025 | Acts 9:42-43 KEY VERSE: “Peter stayed in Joppa for some time with a tanner named Simon." Acts 9:43 (NIV) MESSAGE: Peter’s time in Joppa was marked by his willingness to stay among people considered unclean by Jewish standards. This act of faith and openness laid the groundwork for the gospel to reach the Gentiles, beginning with Cornelius in the next chapter. Peter’s willingness to obey God, even in uncomfortable circumstances, led to a significant expansion of the church. Faith often calls us to step out of our comfort zones. When we trust God and follow His leading, He opens doors to new opportunities for ministry and growth. Like Peter, we must be willing to embrace the unexpected for the sake of the gospel. There is nothing that qualifies us to step out for God in faith but the grace of God. However, often we try to rely on our knowledge and strength to achieve success in doing the things God has asked us to do. When His grace sends you, the same grace will open the doors before you. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Pray for boldness to step out in faith. Leave your comfort zone and see how God opens doors before you. God is waiting for your step of faith to partner with you. PRAYER: Lord, help me to trust You when You call me to step into the unknown. Use my obedience to open doors for Your kingdom and bring others to know You. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 157: 1 Samuel 19 - Saul Tries to Kill David DAILY word study: STAY The word stay in Acts 9:43 is translated from the Greek epimenō, meaning “to remain,” “to continue,” or “to dwell.” It carries the idea of intentional, ongoing presence—not by accident, but by choice and conviction. Peter’s decision to stay with Simon the tanner wasn’t passive. It was a faith-filled act of obedience that broke cultural norms. It created space for the next chapter of God’s plan—the gospel reaching Cornelius and the Gentiles. Sometimes, staying where God has placed you is the very act that opens doors for others to believe. Reflection: Where is God calling you to remain, even if it’s uncomfortable? Don’t run from where He’s working through your presence.
- The Great Commission to the Gentiles: Breaking Down Barriers
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | June 5 2025 | Acts 9:42-43 KEY VERSE: “This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord." Acts 9:42 (NIV) MESSAGE: Peter's ministry in Joppa marked a significant point in addressing cultural and religious differences, as it involved outreach to the Gentiles, whom many Jews perceived as not being part of God's plan of salvation. The miracle of Tabitha being brought back to life was a powerful testimony that caused many to believe in the Lord. Additionally, it facilitated the acceptance of the gospel among the Gentiles, demonstrating that God’s grace is inclusive and accessible to all. The gospel message breaks down the barriers of race, culture, and tradition, inviting all people into God’s family. The people of Joppa also believed in the gospel as was preached and demonstrated in love by Saul. As believers, we are called to embrace the inclusive nature of God's love and share the good news with everyone, regardless of their background. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Ask God to help you embrace His heart for all people. Make the effort to reach as many as you can for the kingdom of God, no matter the gender, race, culture or tradition. PRAYER: Lord, help me to see others through Your eyes and to share Your love with all, breaking down the barriers that separate us from one another and You. Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 156: 1 Samuel 18 — David and Saul’s Jealousy DAILY word study : BELIEVED The word “believed” in Acts 9:42 comes from the Greek pisteuō, meaning “to have faith in,” “to trust,” or “to place confidence in.” It implies a firm commitment, not just mental agreement, but heart-level trust and allegiance. When the people in Joppa saw the miracle of Tabitha’s return to life, they didn’t just marvel—they believed. This belief wasn’t a passive reaction. It was a turning point, a commitment to the Lord. True belief moves beyond amazement—it leads to surrender, trust, and transformation. Reflection: Are you simply impressed by what God does, or have you fully believed? Faith begins when the heart responds to what the eyes have seen.
- A New Life in Christ
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | June 4 2025 | Acts 9:40-41 KEY VERSE: “Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, ‘Tabitha, get up.’ She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, she sat up." Acts 9:40 (NIV) MESSAGE: Tabitha’s resurrection was a powerful demonstration of the life-giving power of Christ. Her physical revival was not just a miracle but also a symbol of the new life we receive through Jesus. Tabitha’s acts of kindness and charity were recognised by God, and her resurrection became a witness to those around her. In Christ, we are also resurrected to new life. Our old selves, dead in sin, are made alive through Jesus. Just as Tabitha’s resurrection inspired faith in the people of Joppa, our transformation in Christ serves as a testimony of God’s power to bring life from death. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Reflect on your new life in Christ. Are you living the new life, or are you still trapped in your old ways? Determine to live in the newness of life that Christ gives by His death and resurrection. PRAYER: Lord, thank You for the new life You’ve given me. Help me to live in a way that reflects Your resurrection power and draws others to You. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 155: 1 Samuel 17 - David and Goliath DAILY word stud y: GET-UP The phrase “get up” in Acts 9:40 comes from the Greek anistēmi, meaning “to rise,” “stand,” or “be raised.” It is often used in the New Testament to refer to both physical and spiritual resurrection. When Peter told Tabitha, “Get up,” he wasn’t offering advice—he was speaking life by faith. Anistēmi isn’t just about movement; it’s about being restored and positioned again. It’s the same word used when Jesus raised people from the dead and when He Himself rose. It’s a resurrection word. Reflection: Has God called you to get up from something—sin, fear, defeat? If He says “get up,” then grace is present to rise.
- A Miracle of Compassion
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | June 3 2025 | Acts 9:36-40 KEY VERSE: “Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, ‘Tabitha, get up.’ She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, she sat up." Acts 9:40 (NIV) MESSAGE: Tabitha, known for her acts of kindness and charity, fell ill and died. But through Peter’s faith and prayer, she was raised from the dead. This miracle not only restored her but also strengthened the faith of the believers and brought many to Christ in Joppa. Tabitha’s story reminds us of God’s compassion and power. He cares deeply about our lives and uses even the most difficult situations for His glory. When we place our trust in Him, we open the door for miracles that can impact not just our lives but the lives of those around us. In times of difficulty, the disciples turned to Peter, trusting God to work a miracle through him. As a result of their turning to God, Dorcas came back to life. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Where and who do you turn to in challenging times? Trust God with your challenges today. PRAYER: Lord, thank You for Your compassion and power. Help me to trust You in every situation and to be a witness to Your love and grace. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 154: 1 Samuel 16 - David Anointed; Saul Tormented DAILY word study: DEAD The Greek word translated as “dead” in Acts 9:40 is nekros, meaning “a corpse” or “lifeless.” It describes someone without physical life, but it's also used figuratively for spiritual death or powerlessness. Tabitha was truly dead - nekros - yet Peter, in faith, turned to her and called her back to life. God’s authority over death is total. This moment wasn’t just about power - it was about compassion. Jesus had raised the dead. Now Peter, through the Spirit, continues that work. Every resurrection points to the ultimate hope we have in Christ. Reflection: What area of your life feels dead? Relationships? Purpose? Faith? God can breathe life into what you’ve already written off.
- God's Miracles as Signs: Revealing His Power and Glory
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | June 2 2025 | Acts 9:32-35 KEY VERSE: “All those who lived in Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord." Acts 9:35 (NIV) MESSAGE: The miraculous healing of Aeneas was not just a sign of God’s compassion but a powerful testimony of His authority and power. Miracles performed in the name of Jesus are not just acts of kindness but signs that point to the glory of God and the truth of the gospel. They cause people to wonder and believe in the power of Jesus to save. When God works miracles in our lives, they serve as testimonies to His power. They can lead others to faith, and they should inspire us to share the gospel with others. God uses signs and wonders to open hearts and minds to His message of salvation. God’s word assures us that the signs and wonders shall follow those who believe in the gospel, which includes you. Many today have turned the tables and are instead chasing after signs and wonders. The greatest sign and wonder is salvation, after which more signs and wonders will follow us. Pray for boldness in sharing the gospel. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Don’t chase after signs and wonders, chase after God and see how signs and wonders will follow you. Remember you were saved and called into signs and wonders. PRAYER: Lord, use Your miracles in my life to testify to Your power. Help me to point others to You and share the good news of Your salvation with all I meet. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 153: 1 Samuel 15 — Saul Rejected as King DAILY word study: TURNED The Greek word translated “turned” in Acts 9:35 is epistrephō, meaning “to turn back,” “return,” or “convert.” It implies a decisive shift—turning away from one path and choosing another, especially turning to God in faith. When the people of Lydda and Sharon saw Aeneas healed, they didn’t just marvel—they turned to the Lord. That turning wasn’t passive; it was a deep, conscious response to what they witnessed. Signs and wonders carry the weight of calling people into repentance, faith, and relationship. Reflection: What has God done in your life that others might see and turn? Your story could be someone else’s reason to believe.
- Healing Power in Jesus' Name
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | June 1 2025 | Acts 9:32-35 KEY VERSE: “Aeneas, Peter said to him, ‘Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and roll up your mat.’ Immediately Aeneas got up." Acts 9:34 (NIV) MESSAGE: The healing of Aeneas through Peter demonstrated the ongoing power of Jesus’ name. This miracle not only restored Aeneas physically but also became a testimony to the surrounding communities, leading many to faith. The power of Christ was still at work, even though He was no longer physically present on earth. In our lives, God still works miracles—sometimes in dramatic ways, such as physical healing, and sometimes in quieter ways, like restoring broken relationships or bringing peace under challenging situations. These acts of grace remind us of His love and draw others to Him. Reflect on God’s power to heal and restore. The power of God is still available today to heal and to work miracles in our lives. Remember it is in Jesus’ name, and not in any other name. You must believe in that name for it to work out your healing and miracle. He gives authority to those who believe in His name. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Reflect on these questions; 1. Do you believe in the name of Jesus? 2. Do you have a meaningful fellowship with Him? 3. Do you desire healing or a miracle? If you answered YES to the first two questions, then boldly trust Him for your healing or breakthrough. But even if your answer is NO , or your walk with Him feels distant, know this: many have encountered God’s healing and miracles before they fully knew Him. Those encounters often opened the door to a relationship. Think of Naaman (2 Kings 5) and the man born blind (John 9). God usually uses healing to draw hearts into intimacy with Him. Wherever you are on the journey, Jesus is calling. Start walking with Him—and watch what He will do. PRAYER: Lord, I believe in Your power to heal and make all things new. Use my life as a testimony of Your love and bring others to faith through Your work in me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 152: 1 Samuel 14 - Jonathan’s Bold Victory DAILY word study : HEALS The Greek word for “heals” in Acts 9:34 is iaomai, which means “to cure,” “to make whole,” or “to restore to health.” In Scripture, iaomai often refers to more than physical healing. It speaks of divine restoration that touches the body, soul, and spirit. Peter didn’t say, “I heal you.” He said, “Jesus Christ heals you.” That matters. The name of Jesus is the source. Healing points to the presence of the kingdom and invites people into faith. Reflection: What needs to be made whole in your life? Jesus still heals today, not by ritual, but by His name.
- God's Timing: Preparing Hearts for the Gospel
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 31 2025 | Acts 9:32-35 KEY VERSE: “As Peter travelled about the country, he went to visit the saints in Lydda. There he found a man named Aeneas, who was paralyzed and had been bedridden for eight years." Acts 9:32-33 (NIV) MESSAGE: Peter’s healing of Aeneas wasn’t just a miracle of physical restoration; it was a moment of divine timing. It was through this act that many in Lydda and the surrounding areas turned to the Lord. God’s miracles are ALWAYS perfectly timed, designed not only to meet personal needs but also to advance His gospel purpose. As a result of the healing of Aeneas, “All those who lived in Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.” Acts 9:35 (NIV). In our lives, God's timing is always perfect. The miracles, breakthroughs, and opportunities He provides may not always come when we expect them, but they are orchestrated for His glory. We are called to trust in God’s perfect timing and be ready to act when He opens the door. Pray for patience and trust in God’s timing. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do not try to get ahead of God in what He has called you to do. Wait for His perfect timing to make all things align and the lines fall in pleasant places. He is never too late or too early. Trust in his timing. PRAYER: Lord, help me to trust in Your timing. May I be ready to act when You open the doors and trust that Your plans for me are always good. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 151: 1 Samuel 13 - Saul’s Foolish Act DAILY word study: PARALYSED The term "paralysed originates from the Greek word "paralytikos," which is derived from "paraluō," meaning to loosen, weaken, or disable. It denotes a state of being motionless or lacking strength. In Acts, the word describes those physically bound and helpless. Aeneas was not just immobile; he was positioned for a divine encounter that would lead many to faith. His healing wasn’t only personal—it was public, and purposeful. Reflection: What in your life has felt immovable? God steps into places of long delay and uses your rising as a reason for others to believe.
- Walking in the Fear of the Lord: The Church at Peace
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 30 2025 | Acts 9:27-31 KEY VERSE: “Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers" Acts 9:31 (NIV) MESSAGE: After Saul’s transformation and the easing of persecution, the church experienced a season of peace and growth. Their foundation was the fear of the Lord—a reverent awe and devotion to God. This deep respect, coupled with the encouragement of the Holy Spirit, brought strength and unity to the believers. As individuals and as a church, living in the fear of the Lord fosters humility and dependence on Him. It reminds us to prioritise God’s will over our own and rely on His Spirit for guidance and encouragement. Seasons of peace are opportunities for spiritual growth and preparation for the challenges ahead. The church today is losing its way. We are gradually losing our reverent fear of God and the things of God. This contributes to the current condition of the church. Believers must pray for a renewed sense of reverence for God in our lives. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What role are you playing to ensure that the Church is at peace? What actions can you take to facilitate the reverent fear of God return to the church? Is your acting and inaction contributing to the peace of the church? Re-evaluate your actions. PRAYER: Lord, teach me to live in awe of You. May Your Spirit strengthen and encourage me to walk faithfully and bring glory to Your name. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 150: 1 Samuel 12 - Samuel’s Farewell Speech DAILY word study: THE FEAR OF THE LORD The Greek word translated as “fear” in Acts 9:31 is phobos, derived from the verb phobeō, meaning “to put to flight” or “to terrify.” While phobos can imply fear or dread, in the New Testament—especially when tied to God—it refers to a profound reverence, awe, or deep respect for His presence, authority, and holiness. In Acts 9:31, “fear of the Lord” means living in reverence of God’s greatness. The Greek word phobos points to deep respect that shapes how we live, not fear that drives us away. This kind of fear draws us closer, guiding our actions with wisdom, just as it did for the early church. In the Bible, phobos often means that the more you know God, the more you honour Him. It’s not fear that pushes you away, but reverence that draws you closer. This deep respect, as Proverbs 9:10 says, is the start of wisdom, and it made the early church strong and fruitful. Reflection: If we desire spiritual maturity, we must embrace a deep reverence that keeps us surrendered and listening. A church that fears the Lord doesn’t chase popularity—it pursues faithfulness.











