Acts 4:1–12

Be still: Lord help me cut out the distractions of the world to encounter to you in your Word. Amen

Read: Acts 4:1–12

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them… (v8)

Encounter: When I was seven, my primary school teacher asked me to read the Bible reading in assembly the next day. I agreed (I’ve always struggled to say no) and decided to memorise the verses. However, I didn’t realise at the time that there were different Bible translations. 

The next morning, I was handed a slip of paper with words that looked completely different from the ones I had learned. Standing in front of the school, paralysed by panic, I slowly began to sob. A teacher had to come, put her arm around me, and walk me back to my seat.

Where I was intimidated by the silent stares of a hundred primary school children, Peter stood before a governing body with the power to sentence him to death and boldly proclaimed the truth of the gospel.

There are moments in life that tempt us to shrink back. When we read Acts 4, we can think, if only we had Peter’s preaching prowess or his courage and confidence, we could see the kingdom advance. But there is a detail in this passage that we should not overlook — 'filled with the Holy Spirit.'

Peter’s boldness did not come from natural ability — it came from the Holy Spirit. The Spirit strengthened, empowered, and equipped him for that moment. 

Old Testament prophet Joel prophesied this same Spirit would not just fill the early church but all believers throughout history. Therefore, whatever we face today, it doesn't have to be in our own strength. The same Holy Spirit who filled Peter dwells in us. He can give us courage, help us overcome timidity, and use us for the advance of his kingdom.

Apply: Think.... is there an area where you tempted to shrink back today? Ask God to fill you afresh with his Spirit and take the next courageous step.

Devote: Holy Spirit, thank you that I do not face today alone. Fill me afresh and use my life for the advance of your kingdom.