Scripture
14 One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message.
Reflection
In this passage, a group of Christians were travelling throughout the region and stopped in the city of Philippi (notably, the book of Philippians is a letter from Paul to the church in Philippi). Paul, Luke and their companions stopped by a river on the Sabbath to pray. They struck up a conversation with a group and shared the Gospel. One of the women in the group was named Lydia. She was a businesswoman, a Gentile (non-Jew), but believed in the God of the Old Testament (unlike most Gentiles at that time who believed in Paganism). In verse 14, it says that “the Lord opened Lydia’s heart to respond to Paul’s message.”
From this, we learn a few important truths. Firstly, as Christians we should be sharing the Gospel (literally the “Good News”) of Jesus to people we come in contact with. It is not simply the work of pastors and missionaries. It is a calling for all believers. Secondly, the actual work of evangelism is done by God through the Holy Spirit. God opens hearts as we share His message. Even if we lack confidence in our own abilities to share the Gospel, we trust that the Holy Spirit is doing the real work of bringing people to Himself.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Follow the ACTS acronym in prayer: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication (Asking).
