Day 316: Chronological Bible in One Year Devotional -
Scripture Reading: Acts 12:6–25; Acts 13; Acts 14:1–20
As the narrative continues from Day 315, we see God’s power advancing His purpose despite human opposition. In Acts 12, Peter, imprisoned by Herod and chained between soldiers, was set free by a divine intervention. The church prayed fervently, and God responded by sending an angel to deliver him. This miraculous escape was a clear testimony that no prison, chain, or ruler can restrain the power of God when His people pray in faith.
Herod’s pride, however, led to his downfall. When he failed to give glory to God and accepted praise as though he were divine, he was struck down and died. Yet, even in the midst of persecution and political turmoil, “the word of God continued to spread and flourish.”
Acts 13 marks a new era in the mission of the Church as the Holy Spirit separated Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for a special work. This first missionary journey was a turning point — the gospel moved with power to regions beyond Jerusalem. In Antioch of Pisidia, Paul boldly preached that forgiveness of sins comes through Jesus, not through the law. The message stirred both faith and resistance, but those appointed for eternal life believed, and the Word spread throughout the region.
Acts 14 continues the story of courage and endurance. In Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe, Paul and Barnabas faced both revival and riot. In Lystra, Paul healed a crippled man, and the people mistook them for gods. But when Paul and Barnabas redirected all glory to God, the crowd turned against them, and Paul was stoned nearly to death. Still, he rose up and went back to preach again — a striking image of unshakable faith and unwavering mission.
The journey of Paul and Barnabas reminds us that God’s messengers may be persecuted, but His message cannot be silenced. The same power that opened Peter’s prison doors strengthened Paul to rise from the stones of rejection. The Word of God will always triumph.
Personal Reflection: God’s Word cannot be chained. No matter what opposition arises, the gospel continues to advance. Like Paul, we are called to be steadfast, to endure trials with grace, and to give all glory to God. Our faith must remain anchored in Christ, who turns pain into purpose.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen my heart to remain steadfast in trials. Help me never to seek glory for myself but to reflect Your power in all I do. May Your Word flourish through my life, and may I remain faithful even in persecution. Let Your name alone be glorified. Amen.
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