Scripture Union Daily Guide 12 December 2022 | Devotional

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Today’s Topic: Bound but not hindered

Opening Prayer: My dear heavenly Father, as I study your word, let it be a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.

Scripture: Acts 28:17‐31

Question(s) for Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
• Is there any promise for me to believe or hope for?

Today’s Outline For Scripture Union Daily Guide 12 December 2022

Paul was a prisoner in Rome although living in his own rented apartment. Normally the soldier guarding him (v.16) would normally be chained to him (v.20). Even in that condition he could not keep quiet but shared the message with whosoever would listen. He was very serious about what he wrote to the Romans 10 years earlier in Romans 1:15‐16 (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:16). How good it would be if all Christians were to take the proclamation of the gospel very seriously.

The Jews did well not to condemn Paul and the message he proclaimed until they had listened to him (vs.21‐22). We often act on rumours instead of seeking relevant information from the people concerned – “hearing from the horse’s mouth” before condemning the accused. Notice how Paul made his message relevant to his listeners (v.23). It is not true that such approach cannot be effective. We must, however, allow each recipient to respond to our message with a willing heart, not under pressure, in order to make a positive decision.

Practice/Word Application
Thought: Success in witnessing comes when the message of the gospel is shared in the power of the Holy Spirit, while leaving the result to God (Bill Bright).

• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?

Closing Prayer
• Help me, dear Lord, to make the best of every opportunity you bring my way to share the gospel message with others.

Offer a prayer of faith in line with
Deuteronomy 28:3; 1 Peter 1, 2; Proverbs 31