Daily Devotional with Dr. Duane Brooks
February 20, 2018
Acts 19:26-27
And you see and hear how this fellow Paul has convinced and led astray large numbers of people here in Ephesus and in practically the whole province of Asia. He says that gods made by human hands are no gods at all.  There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited; and the goddess herself, who is worshiped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed of her divine majesty.”
New International Version (NIV)
                 What difference can Christianity make in a city?  After Paul ministered in Ephesus for two years, the sales of idols went into a precipitous decline.  The good news of Jesus Christ dramatically changed the demand for idols in that city.  This so angered the idol merchants that they had Paul arrested. 

                Think about how many years Christianity has been a part of the city in which you live.  How is the presence of Christians impacting the spiritual temperature of our world?  Are we thermometers or thermostats?  Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth . . . you are the light of the world . . .”  He knew his disciples would be able to make a difference for God’s in the world.

                The progress of the gospel in Ephesus inspires us.  So many believed in Jesus that they no longer needed idols.  Isn’t that fantastic?  The message of good news can change the world.  How can we be sure?  For starters, it has changed us!
Pray with me:
Gracious Father, how we love you and praise you.  Thank you for the progress of the gospel in our world.  Help us to so live our lives that others turn from idols and are drawn to you.  The dearest idol we have known, whatever that idol be, help us to tear it from our hearts and worship only thee.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.   
This year we focus our Every Day with Jesus readings on Jesus’ story.  With references to Tallowood's Read Through the Bible in 2018 daily reading plan, let's focus our undivided attention on Jesus and follow where he lead. He will not fail. Neither will we!
  Joyfully, 
  Duane 
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