Day 1: Being Present in God's Calling
Reading: Acts 8:26-40
Philip's encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch teaches us the power of being present and attentive to God's voice. Like Philip, we are called to listen for the Spirit's prompting and act in obedience. Today, reflect on how God might be calling you to be present in someone's life. Are you rushing to "fix" situations, or are you willing to simply walk alongside others, listening and waiting for God's perfect timing? Ask God to help you discern when to speak and when to listen, trusting that He is already at work in the lives of those around you.
Day 2: God's Prevenient Grace
Reading: Romans 5:6-11
The story of the Ethiopian eunuch reminds us that God is always working in people's lives, even before they fully know Him. This is what John Wesley called "prevenient grace." Consider how God has been working in your life, drawing you closer to Him even before you were aware of it. Reflect on the people in your life who may be on a journey towards God, even if they don't realize it yet. How can you be a gentle presence of God's love in their lives, trusting in His timing and work?
Day 3: Embracing Our Identity in Christ
Reading: Isaiah 56:3-5
The Ethiopian eunuch, despite being an outsider in many ways, was welcomed into God's family through baptism. This powerful act of inclusion reminds us that in Christ, all barriers are broken down. Reflect on any ways you might feel like an outsider or unworthy of God's love. Remember that in Christ, you are fully accepted and loved. How can you extend this same radical acceptance to others who might feel marginalized or excluded?
Day 4: Finding Hope in Darkness
Reading: Psalm 139:7-12
Our world often feels dark and frightening, but as believers, we know there is always hope in Christ. Like a lantern in the darkness, we are called to shine the light of Christ through our words, deeds, and presence. Reflect on areas of your life or the world that seem particularly dark right now. How can you bring the hope of Christ into these situations? Remember, you don't need to have all the answers or "fix" everything – sometimes simply being present with someone in their darkness, while holding onto hope, is the most powerful witness.
Day 5: Trusting God's Timing and Direction
Reading: Proverbs 3:5-6
Philip's willingness to follow God's direction without knowing all the details is a powerful example of trust. He didn't question why he needed to go down that particular road; he simply obeyed. In our own lives, we often want to know all the details before we step out in faith. Today, reflect on areas where God might be calling you to trust Him more fully. Are there situations where you're hesitating to obey because you can't see the full picture? Ask God for the courage to follow His leading, even when the path isn't clear, trusting that He is guiding you towards His perfect plan.