Acts 1:1–26

Be Still: Thank you, Lord, that you are alive and always working. Help me to see you in these passages and open my heart to all you want me to know today. Amen 

Read: Acts 1:15–26

So they nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. Then they all prayed, 'O Lord, you know every heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen.' (23-24)

Many of us have plans, to-do lists and important decisions to make. As you read this, a few may be springing to mind. The church in Acts was certainly familiar with plans and important decisions. After the death of Judas, they planned to appoint someone new to take over the position of Apostle. So, they gathered 120 believers to pray.

Before you make your decisions and preparations, make a plan to pray. The disciples made a plan to pray before any major decisions because they wanted God’s will. They understood that while man looks at the outward aspect, God looks inward and deeper. When praying, I haven’t always received a specific direction, and I believe that’s okay! Peace comes from knowing the decision is submitted into good hands, and you can trust you will be led even if you don’t recognise that immediately. 

At times, in the busyness of life, I have put prayer lower on my priority list. However, it is because we have so much to do, that we must pray. Martin Luther King says, ‘I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer,’. 

Because he was so pressured for time, he felt even more the urge to pray. 

I’m not saying we must all commit to 3 hours a day praying (great if we could!) but maybe ask yourself how you could invite more prayer into your life. Let prayer drive your decisions. 

Apply: Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate any plans or decisions that he would like you pray over. If you feel led, invite a friend or two to pray with you. 

Devote: Lord, in the busyness of life, help me not to forget to seek your guidance and will. Help me to live a life dependent on prayer. Help me to remember that the best decisions are made in the place of prayer.