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The Devil's Plan: My friend Clarence Fell asked ChatGPT, "If you were Satan, describe an eight-point plan for how you would draw young people away from Christ." 

Today's episode explores the first four ways. Next week we will cover the remaining four.  

1) Twist Their Identity

2) Feed Their Distractions

3) Glorify Self-Expression Over Self-Control

4) Undermine Biblical Authority

How many of these have been stumbling blocks in your life? And more crucially, what steps are you taking for yourself and those you love to counter the devil's attacks?     

Daily Bible Devotional (Volumes 1 and 2):

Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)

Sponsors: 
Jon Cunningham, Owner, Cunningham Financial Group
Website:  www.cunninghamfinancialgroup.com   
Phone:  205-326-7364

Tyler Cain, Senior Loan Officer, Statewide Mortgage
Websites: https://statewidemortgage.com/
https://tylercain.floify.com/
Phone: 813-380-8487

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]

Acts 22

The apostle Paul addresses the crowd in Jerusalem after his arrest. He shares his testimony, detailing his background as a devout Jew, educated under Gamaliel, and his earlier zeal for persecuting Christians. Paul recounts his dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, where God blinded him and instructed him to wait for further guidance. In Damascus, Ananias, a devout servant of Christ, heals Paul’s blindness. He then commands Paul to be baptized to wash away his sins and explains God’s mission for him to become an apostle to the Gentiles. This story incites the predominantly Jewish listeners to demand his death! The Roman commander prepares to flog Paul but hesitates when he learns that he is a Roman citizen. He is then brought to stand before the Jewish Council.

Paul’s conversion story is recounted three times in the Book of Acts. On this occasion, Paul himself shares the story with the Jews who called for his arrest. In this hostile setting, he describes how God intervened to guide him toward true faith in Jesus. He emphasized how God worked in his life to redirect his passion toward righteous ministry. He spoke the truth, even though it provoked anger among the audience. This is the humility and courage we strive to cultivate in our lives. If God is working to redirect you for His purpose, submit to Him. If He is using your voice to bring Christ’s hope to others, regardless of how they respond, keep proclaiming the name of Jesus.

God of grace, we praise You for Your loving-kindness towards all people. Paul’s conversion illustrates how You seek out good-hearted individuals, forgiving their sins and repurposing them for Your glory. Thank You for pursuing us and patiently guiding us to submit to Your will. Help us to be grateful and to share Your mercies with others. Please provide us opportunities to share with others how good You have been, regardless of how people choose to receive it. Protect us from the enemy, but also involve us in challenging and meaningful ministry work in the name of our Savior Jesus.

Thought Questions:

-       Paul used a Hebrew dialect to better relate to the audience. Are there ways you can modify your words to be better received by others?

-       God’s action in Paul’s life led him to humble obedience. Has God’s patient pursuit of your soul humbled you? How has that changed you?

-       Paul was willing to die, but he also avoided a beating in this text. How do you balance self-sacrifice and self-defense in your faith?

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Acts 21

Paul travels to Jerusalem despite warnings of danger. Along the way, he visits various Christian communities, where believers plead with him not to go. At Caesarea, Paul stays at the home of Philip the evangelist, one of the seven men chosen in Acts 6. The prophet Agabus predicts that Paul will be bound and handed over to the Gentiles. Paul remains resolute, declaring his willingness to suffer and even die in the name of Jesus. Upon arriving in Jerusalem, Paul meets with James and the other elders, recounting the wonderful things God has accomplished among the Gentiles. After taking a vow to appease the Jewish believers, an angry mob of Jewish unbelievers accuses Paul of defiling the temple by bringing Gentiles into it. In the chaos, Roman soldiers arrest him. 

Paul’s example of courage should leave a profound impact on our hearts. The Holy Spirit indicates that Paul will suffer for his testimony about Christ in Jerusalem, and his friends urge him not to go. However, Paul’s commitment to suffer and die for Christ captures the essence of discipleship: Jesus is either worth nothing or worth everything. We must make that determination in our lives. Paul’s vow in Jerusalem illustrates his willingness to make sacrifices to help brethren understand the mission. His calmness in the face of criticism and threats demonstrates the peace that can be found only in Jesus. Today, God’s people must also make concessions to influence others, but they must never compromise their spiritual integrity.

Great Protector, we entrust our lives to You and dedicate ourselves to Your ministry. Through the Spirit, You have revealed to us that the path of truth is narrow and difficult, often inviting persecution from unbelievers. Father, grant us the courage to choose Your Son now and always. Guide us to faithful individuals, from whom we can draw the encouragement we seek. Help us to love them and do everything possible to retain fellowship with them. However, protect us from compromising to fit the world's expectations, even if this leads to severe consequences and personal costs for Jesus.  

Thought Questions:

-       Prophets warned Paul “through the Spirit” about the future. How does the Holy Spirit also warn and teach us about future events?

-       Paul shared God’s work among the Gentiles, encouraging Jewish believers. Do you share the workings of God in your life to uplift Christians?

-       Paul held his composure, even against false accusations, arrest, and a beating. Will you show such composure today amid the trials you face?

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]

Acts 20

Paul continues his journey, traveling through Macedonia and Greece and encouraging the believers. He stops in Troas, where the Christians “break bread," and he preaches until midnight. During his sermon, a young man named Eutychus falls asleep, tumbles out of the window, and dies. Paul revives him, demonstrating incredible power from God. Later, Paul meets with the elders from Ephesus in Miletus for an emotional farewell. He reflects on his ministry, emphasizing his faithfulness in proclaiming the gospel despite facing trials. He warns them to guard their flock against false teachers and to care for the church, which was purchased with Christ’s blood. Paul’s heartfelt goodbye includes prayers and tears as he commends them to the word of God’s grace and encourages them to actively help the weak among them.

This chapter’s use of "we” pronouns suggests that the author, Luke, accompanies Paul on this journey, adding credibility to the book of Acts. Luke documents a Sunday gathering, the purpose of which was to gather together to "break bread.” This example implies a Sunday observance of the Lord’s Supper, which we still honor today. Preaching until midnight is less common now, as it can lead to dangerous sleep incidents! Eutychus’s revival after falling serves as a testament to God’s mercy and power. Paul’s meeting with the Ephesian elders establishes another model for churches today: elders within local congregations attending to the spiritual needs of their flock. Elders are to be students of the word and supporters of the weak among them. 

Benevolent Father, we praise You for the abundant gifts of grace provided through Your Son. We thank You for the perfect and indestructible word that reveals so many beautiful truths to us. We pray for wisdom in studying the word and seeking guidance on how to honor You. May we draw from Acts 20 the importance of gathering on Sundays to partake of the Lord’s Supper together. Instill in our hearts a yearning for fellowship. Father, please bless our local churches with devoted elders. Work on all our hearts, shaping us to love the flock and serve in Jesus’ honor. 

Thought Questions:

-       Disciples planned to meet to break bread and study. How important is that example in how you build your weekly schedule around Jesus?

-       Paul shared his personal resolve before instructing elders. How important is your own walk of faith as you hope to then teach others?

-       The elders were told to stay alert, study well, and help the weak among them. How can you help the local eldership accomplish these goals?

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)
Youtube Video Introducing the Content
Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]

Acts 19

Paul’s third journey takes him to Ephesus, where he stays for two years. He first meets disciples who had only experienced John’s baptism. He teaches them about the Holy Spirit from God and baptizes them in Jesus’ name. Paul then lays hands on them, imparting the power of the Holy Spirit. Extraordinary miracles occur through Paul, demonstrating God’s limitless power. Later, some exorcists attempt to invoke Jesus’ name without true faith and are overpowered by a demonic spirit, leading many to renounce occult practices and burn their sorcery books. Paul’s teachings about Jesus ultimately challenge the idol-making trade, angering a craftsman named Demetrius. A riot breaks out as many of the people worship a goddess named Artemis. After two hours, the town clerk finally calms the crowd, and the mob disperses.

Like Apollos in chapter 18, Paul encounters individuals with incomplete knowledge of Christ and His will. He teaches them the full truth of the gospel, leading them to be “baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” These accounts guide us in how to help believers with limited understanding. Paul asks questions to discern their beliefs and explains God’s truth simply and clearly. He wisely reasons with others, avoiding an adversarial approach, and this leads to “the word of the Lord growing mightily and prevailing.” Share the word with kindness, building on the truth people already know. Though this may provoke opposition, trust in God’s protection and blessings as you faithfully carry out His mission and share His love.

Holy Lord, may Your will be done in our lives. Use us as messengers of truth, accepting opportunities to fulfill what is lacking in others’ hearts. Thank You for Your perfect word to guide us and for Your protective power that gives peace and courage. Refute those who distract from the gospel and soften their hearts to obey and be saved. Disperse the crowds who let idolatry fuel anger and who lash out at Your people. We trust You are in control and that Your word will spread mightily. Strengthen us to engage faithfully in the work of sharing Your gospel. 

Thought Questions:

-       What is your attitude toward believers with incomplete knowledge about God? How can Paul’s example impact how you interact with them?

-       The sorcerers’ failings opened people’s eyes to see the truth. Are you ready to guide people to the truth when the lies of the world fail them?

-       Demetrius was furious as the gospel was a threat to his income. Why does money so often affect how people respond to God’s will?

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)
Youtube Video Introducing the Content
Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]

Acts 18

The apostle Paul continues his second missionary journey, focusing on Corinth, where he meets Aquila and Priscilla, Jewish tentmakers expelled from Rome. Paul stays with them, working as a tentmaker while teaching in the synagogue every Sabbath. Although some oppose him, Paul stays committed, preaching to Jews and Gentiles and guiding many to Christ, including a leader of the synagogue named Crispus. God instructs Paul in a vision to stay in Corinth, promising his protection, and Paul teaches there for eighteen months. Afterward, he travels to Ephesus, where he teaches briefly before completing his journey to Caesarea and Antioch. Meanwhile, Apollos, an eloquent preacher in Ephesus, is taught more accurately about the gospel by Aquila and Priscilla. Apollos goes on to powerfully refute the Jews in defense of Jesus as Christ. 

Paul’s time in Corinth serves as a guide for sharing the gospel today. He reasoned with religious individuals who were misinformed about the truth; some believed, like the synagogue leader, while others resisted. When opposition arose, Paul turned to the Gentiles, sharing the gospel with many who embraced it. God protected and used him in this work. We should engage with believers who lack the full truth, as Priscilla and Aquila later did with Apollos. This is meaningful work for God. However, if they refuse to listen, do not stop teaching about Jesus—focus your efforts on people who have yet to know the Lord. There is always an opportunity and a need to share the truth about Jesus Christ.  

Benevolent Lord, thank You for providing us with all we need to carry out Your will in this life. Paul found companions such as Priscilla and Aquila, Silas, and Timothy on his journey. Thank You for the faithful workers who have been there to assist us in serving You. Help us to lean on them, learn from them, and be of help to them as we all strive to stand strong for Jesus and share His beloved gospel with the world. Many do not want to listen, and we often feel discouraged. Encourage us to keep working by Your grace.  

Thought Questions:

-       The most common instruction in scripture is in today’s read, “Do not be afraid” (v9). Why not? Is God with you? How do you know?

-       Gallio, like many Gentile leaders, had little interest in the gospel. Why is it so difficult for people in power to surrender to Christ?

-       What does it say about Apollos that he listened to correction and altered his teaching? Is that something you may also have to do?

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The Big Three. Start here. Victory in Jesus in these three areas set the stage for victory in every part of your life. And so long as they go unaddressed, no other effort in Jesus' name can please the Lord. Take down the big three, and the adversary's team falls apart.    

Idolatry:

Addressed by Jesus and Paul (Seen in I Thessalonians 1:6-10)

Bitterness:

Addressed by Jesus and Paul (seen in I Thess. 3:11-13; 4:9-12)

Immorality:

Addressed by Jesus and Paul (seen in I Thess. 4:1-8)

Dailly Bible Devotional (Volumes 1 and 2):

Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)

Sponsors: 
Jon Cunningham, Owner, Cunningham Financial Group
Website:  www.cunninghamfinancialgroup.com   
Phone:  205-326-7364

Tyler Cain, Senior Loan Officer, Statewide Mortgage
Websites: https://statewidemortgage.com/
https://tylercain.floify.com/
Phone: 813-380-8487

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)
Youtube Video Introducing the Content
Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]

Acts 17

Paul continues his second missionary journey with stops in Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens. In Thessalonica, Paul reasons with the Jews in the synagogue, explaining that Jesus is the Messiah who fulfilled the scriptures. While some believe, others incite a riot, forcing Paul and Silas to flee to Berea. The Bereans are praised for their eagerness to examine the scriptures daily to verify Paul’s teachings. Many believe, but opposition arises again, prompting Paul to leave. In Athens, Paul is stirred by the city’s idolatry and engages with philosophers in the Areopagus. He proclaims the one true God, emphasizing His power to create all things and His call for everyone to repent of their sins. He informs them that God will judge the world, providing proof by raising Jesus from the dead.

The centerpiece of the gospel is the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. Nearly every sermon in Acts highlights the evidence for and significance of this momentous event. In Thessalonica, Paul uses the resurrection to demonstrate that Jesus is the Christ. In Athens, the philosophers are challenged by Paul, who is “preaching Jesus and the resurrection.” Paul concludes his sermon to the Athenians by declaring Jesus as the final Judge, a truth established by God raising Him from the dead. God created us to seek Him, and He offered and raised His Son so that we can find Him. Some sneer at this, while others delay their response. However, true believers in the resurrection accept it and join the cause. 

Dear Father, thank You for raising Your crucified Son from the dead. Thank You for the evidence of His resurrection and for the incredible, eternal assurances that accompany His victory over sin and death. Lord God, we believe. We believe You made all things and created us to seek and find You. We also believe that Your Son’s death and resurrection are the only path to reach You, forgiven by His blood and granted the promise of eternal life in His name. We know Jesus will judge the world. Lead us to repent and prepare for our Savior's return.  

Thought Questions:

-       Why do you believe that Jesus Christ was raised from the dead? Are you prepared to elaborate in order to teach others about Jesus?

-       The Berean listeners are commended for examining scripture to confirm Paul’s words. Why should you do that when you hear teaching?

-       Do you believe that God created you and that in Him you “live and move and exist”? How does this belief shape your daily life and choices?

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]

Acts 16

Paul embarks on his second journey, taking Silas along with him. In Lystra, they meet Timothy, who joins them after being circumcised to satisfy others. Guided by the Holy Spirit, they are directed to Macedonia following Paul’s vision of a man pleading for help. In Philippi, they encounter Lydia, a seller of purple, who converts to Christianity. Later, Paul and Silas liberate a slave girl from an evil spirit, angering her owners, who have them beaten and imprisoned. Around midnight, while they are singing and praying, an earthquake occurs, and the prison doors swing open. The jailer fears for his life, but Paul shares the message of Jesus with him. The jailer and his household are baptized that very hour. The next day, Paul and Silas are officially released.

Paul’s missionary journey is led by the Holy Spirit. God actively guides him to those whose hearts are prepared for salvation. God continues to reach people today, and we are His vessels to carry the message of Christ, even though our effort may require personal sacrifice. This chapter highlights at least three conversions, each involving a commitment from the new believers as well. Timothy was circumcised, not for salvation, but to gain influence among the Jews. Lydia and her household were likely the first converts in all of Europe. The jailer risked his life by aligning himself and his household with imprisoned men. The gospel demands submission, sacrifice, and courage from all believers in the name of Jesus Christ. 

Gracious God, thank You for the powerful stories of faith found in Acts 16. Like Timothy, we pray for a willingness to make personal sacrifices for the sake of others. Like Lydia, we seek to have a heart that is always open to obey You. Like Paul and Silas, we pray for the courage to praise Your name, even in life’s most challenging trials. And like the jailer, we ask You to help us build the urgency to do what is right in the very hour that we learn the truth. Open our hearts to respond to Your glorious will.

Thought Questions:

-       Why was Timothy circumcised? Are you willing to do something painful or hard simply for the sake of someone else's conscience?

-       The Lord opened Lydia’s heart. What does this mean? How does the Lord open your heart, and what should be the results of such an event?

-       Paul and Barnabas rejoiced in trial, and God used the occasion to convert a family to Christ. Is God working similar plans in your times of trial?

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)
Youtube Video Introducing the Content
Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]

Acts 15

“Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” These words from Jewish believers create significant dissension among the brethren. Paul and Barnabas travel to Jerusalem to discuss the issue with the apostles and elders there. Peter announces that salvation comes through faith and recounts how God bestowed the Holy Spirit upon Cornelius. Paul and Barnabas contribute by sharing stories of the salvation of Gentiles during their recent journey. In no case was circumcision required for salvation. James quotes the Old Testament to indicate God’s plan to include Gentiles. Everyone involved agrees that no such burden should be placed upon new believers. A letter is written and sent to the church in Antioch. Afterward, Paul and Barnabas have a disagreement and embark upon missionary journeys separately.   

Even among believers, conflicts can arise. Often, people impose their beliefs on others, leading to division. The key to resolution is communication and a willingness to seek the workings and word of God. With open hearts, the truth about salvation can be discovered and shared. God could have revealed that circumcision was unnecessary. Instead, He expected them to study, show patience and kindness, and learn together. God expects the same from us today. We can explore the liberties and restrictions of God in unity. The story at the end of the chapter involving Paul, Barnabas, and Mark illustrates how disagreements can lead to temporary separation. Yet, they continue their work as brothers and are united in the years that follow. 

Loving God, soften our hearts to love one another. So many Christians have been divided over issues that should not have come between them. Help us learn to listen closely, to speak thoughtfully, and to study scripture together with unbiased and inquisitive minds. It is a blessing to see the gathering in Jerusalem unify in acknowledging the liberties among them and coming up with needful restrictions. Grant us the wisdom to reach conclusions together that align with Your will. Father, we sometimes face disagreements and separate for periods of time. Please humble our hearts to come together in love quickly.

Thought Questions:

-       Should brethren be careful in declaring certain conditions for salvation? Why is it crucial to explain your convictions clearly from scripture?

-       Why is it valuable to gather with other students of the word when deciding issues related to salvation or the future of local churches?

-       Barnabas defends John Mark in much the same way as he did Paul in chapter 9. Are you an encourager who often defends fellow be