Acts 20

A few things stood out to me this morning, reading Acts 20. He’s talking to the Ephesian elders; it’s his farewell address. He talks about not shrinking back from telling them what they needed to hear, about his focused message. He tells them to be on guard, for themselves and God’s people.

I had to pause. How many times have I “shrunk” back? Have I missed an opportunity because I wasn’t on guard? Not saying anything is saying something. How many times have I failed to share the message?

God loves you; he wants a relationship with you. Repent, turn to God, and trust in Jesus. Take up your cross and follow him. I just started reading The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. I love this quote:

 “Only he who believes is obedient, and only he who is obedient believes.”
Dietrich Bonhoeffer

It’s really challenging me to put my thoughts and words into action. I feel called to be a servant leader, not a bystander. Lord, help me to think the thoughts that lead to you. Help me to say what you want people to hear. Not what I want to say. Help me not to shrink back, give me boldness, and strength to take action. Lord help me to be an authentic follower of Christ.