Paul devoted himself . . . to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah. But when they . . . became abusive, he . . . said . . . “From now on I will go to the Gentiles.”
— Acts 18:5-6

Thought Of The Day...
The apostle Paul had become God’s “chosen instrument to proclaim [Jesus’] name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel” (Acts 9:15). As Paul ministered across Asia Minor, Macedonia, and Greece, his method was to go first to Jewish synagogues and then to the Gentiles, sharing the good news of Jesus. Acts 18:1-8 describes Paul’s ministry in Corinth.
Some of the Jewish people there believed the gospel, but others “opposed Paul and became abusive.” So Paul shook out his clothes in protest and moved along, saying he would go and preach to the Gentiles.
In Smyrna a similar situation developed. The church of Jesus was being persecuted by people who said they were Jews, God’s original chosen people, but they were being influenced by Satan.
Though Jesus’ church there was healthy, it faced troubles. Jesus said he knew the people’s affliction and suffering for being his followers. He also knew their poverty. In the bustling city of Smyrna business thrived, but unless you offered incense to the city’s gods, you could not do business there. Without an income, you became poor. Yet Jesus said they were rich! The kingdom of God operates on a different scale: amazing grace!
Friends, be strong in Jesus. All who are children of God in Christ will wear the victor’s crown.

Prayer...
Heavenly Father, We come to you with humble hearts and grateful spirits, thanking you for your unfailing love and faithfulness. As we reflect on the words of Acts 18:5-6, we are reminded of your power and grace in our lives.

Lord, you have called us to be faithful witnesses of your goodness and mercy. We pray for the strength and courage to boldly testify about your love and faithfulness, even in the face of the trials and challenges of this world.

May your Holy Spirit guide us and give us the words to speak, that all who hear may come to know and experience your love.

We pray for those who have not yet received your love, that they may have open hearts and minds to receive your saving grace.

Thank you for never leaving us or forsaking us, even when we stumble in our journey of faith. Help us to be unwavering in our devotion to you, and may our testimony be a light to those around us.

We trust in your divine plan and timing, and we pray for your will to be done in our lives. May we continue to grow in faith and share your love with the world, just as your disciples did in Acts.

We ask all this in the name of Jesus. Amen and Amen.