The Book of Acts: Turn Your World Upside DownSample

Today’s Devotional:

*Today’s devotional mentions a personal story about thoughts of suicide. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health providers with any questions regarding your care. Remember, seeking help doesn’t make you weak—it makes you wise.

Today’s reading from Acts 22 reminds us of the power that comes through sharing our story. In front of a crowd of rather rowdy witnesses, we see Paul give his personal story of what God has done for him and the radical change he experienced as a result. Looking at the life of Paul, it is made clear that a revelation of who God is changes everything.

In Hebrew, the word for ‘testimony’ is translated to ‘do it again, with the same power and authority.’ When we take the step to share our story of the power and miracles that God has done for us—it’s more than just words spoken or written. Our testimony invokes faith, it shouts loudly of the power found when we run to the cross, and it helps to tear down the walls of sin and shame to rebuild on the firm foundation of Jesus.

From middle school through my early 20s, I walked through a weathered season of depression and suicide that I felt trapped by. To me, life had no purpose or meaning, and I had no value or place. It wasn’t until I opened up to a friend honestly about the journey I’d been on that I began to open myself up to the healing power. My painful honesty, the accountability my friend held me to, and the power of God to heal and restore me saved my life. Since then, I have been able to walk with people through similar seasons of life and point back to the hope I found. That’s my testimony—death to life.

Have you ever traveled out of town and looked for recommendations on where to go? Whenever I’m looking for advice on navigating a new place I’m stopping in, I’m reaching out to people who know the in-and-outs—the best places to stop and eat, the streets you should avoid, and the hidden gems that will highlight the trip. I think of our testimonies from a similar perspective. While what we’ve once walked through might have caused us shame or pain, we have the insight to help guide others through their own voyage of faith with Jesus. We can help advise on where to stop and be filled, how to avoid temptation, and how to enjoy the journey—even when you’re unsure of the ending. Your testimony is a sacred gift that is meant to be shared.

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Today’s devotional was written by Erica Sade.

Questions:

• Take some time to think about what God has done in your life. If you’ve never written your testimony down, take a few moments to reflect and write it down.
• How has God used your testimony to point back to the hope that is found in Him?

Prayer:

God, thank you for how you have moved and worked in my life. I pray that You would use my testimony for Your glory and open myself up to be used by You. Allow my story to be used to help point people to the hope that’s found in you. Amen.