by Kevin Burton
Peek into the book of Acts today Christian friend, and catch a glimpse of Lydia. And after doing so, be encouraged.
With no special credentials, no special ability, except avail-ability, Lydia stepped up to support the work of the Lord.
This was in Philippi, at the time, the most prominent city of Macedonia. The Apostle Paul and his group had come through and were as always, on task for Jesus.
“And on the sabbath day we went out of the city to the riverside, where prayer was customarily made; and we sat down and spoke to the women who met there. Now a certain woman named Lydia heard us. She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. “
“The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul. And when she and her household were baptized, she begged us, saying, ‘If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.’ So she persuaded us” (Acts 16: 13-15 NKJV).
Lydia’s contribution is the subject of an encouraging message from In Touch Ministries, which was founded by the late Dr. Charles Stanley.
If you are downcast, doubting your own usefulness to God’s church, look to one woman’s example.
“Lydia welcomed Paul and his companions into her home.As a new believer and a businesswoman in Philippi, she immediately understood that her resources—her home, hospitality, and influence—could serve the kingdom,” In Touch wrote. “By opening her doors to traveling ministers in need of rest and a base for their work, she provided a place where the gospel could take root in her city.”
“God’s plan for every believer is made up of a lifetime of opportunities. No matter what our career or calling may be, we should each seek ways to serve the Lord daily.”
“We do this by ministering—wherever we are—to family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers,” In Touch wrote.
“Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;distributing to the needs of the saints, given] to hospitality” (Romans 12: 10-13, NKJV).
“The Lord gives His children gifts and talents suitable for fulfilling His purposes, so we know He wants to use us. You can be sure that when you make yourself available to follow Him in any circumstance, He’ll equip you with the right tools for the task,” In Touch wrote.”
Go back to the passage from Acts, to chapter 16, verse 14, and you’ll see that first, Lydia heard the saints, then God opened her heart for service.
If you’re like me, sometimes you can’t imagine what difference you could possibly make. God knows exactly what abilities and resources you have, and how they could be useful to Him for the spread of the gospel.
If you have a super talent for the Lord, He will use it for sure. But remember that ordinary believers with open ears (and eyes) and an open heart, can be a great service to the Lord.
“Are you ready to say, ‘Yes, God can use me?’” is the question presented in the In Touch message.
Good question for you and for me, dear reader. Are you ready?
“If so, then tell the Lord you are available to work for Him in any way He desires,” In Touch wrote. “He will respond by placing people and opportunities in your path. Through His strength, you will do more to further the kingdom than you ever imagined—one day and one small act of service at a time.”
Page 7 