Day 9: The Same Powerful God, Then and Now

Scripture: Acts 9:31


Devotion

It can be easy to read a passage like this and think, “It’s so amazing to see how God worked then. I wish he worked that way now.” The good news of this passage, though, is that the same God who worked in the book of Acts promises to work in our lives today. His power hasn’t diminished, and His desire to build His church remains unchanged.

The church in Acts wasn’t thinking about starting a totally different religious movement. They were just living in response to what the Lord had asked them to do through the gospel of Jesus, day by day. They were simply faithful in the small things like sharing meals together, praying consistently, and loving their neighbors with genuine hearts. As they obeyed, God began multiplying their numbers one by one. God blessed the obedience of the church in Acts, allowing more and more people to know Christ. This growth was the result of the work of the Holy Spirit moving through ordinary people who said “yes” to God’s leading.

The path forward is simple: Do you want to see a church multiplication movement? What’s one step you can take today to make it happen (ex: praying, building up leaders, discipling others)? Now, go do it.

A Personal Prayer

Reflect on Acts 9:31 and ask God to guide you in discovering your place in His kingdom work, even in everyday moments. Pray for a heart aligned with His priority of church multiplication and seek His direction on how you can contribute to this movement in practical ways today.

Pray for Our Community: Grove Hill Church

Grove Hill Church in Chapel Hill, TN, led by Pastor Ridley Barren, serves the rapidly growing area of southern Middle Tennessee, bringing the whole gospel to impact lives and inspire lasting faith. As they grow in outreach, Grove Hill is also praying for guidance and provision for a new building to support their mission.

Pray for Pastor Ridley Barren and the church leadership, that God would provide them with wisdom, strength, and vision to lead effectively.

Pray for growth in their congregation and outreach, that Grove Hill would be a place where people encounter genuine love and faith in Jesus.

Ask God for unity and encouragement among church members, fostering a spirit of service and love for the community.

Prayer for the Nations: Global Workers, Nick & Lillian

Nick and Lillian serve in Southeast Asia, focusing on training local Malaysians for church-based ministry through seminary courses. Nick teaches Greek and biblical studies while actively participating in various roles at Gospel City Church KL, helping to equip future leaders for the gospel.

Pray for their family to grow together in love for God and one another, fostering a strong spiritual foundation.

Ask God to bless their students’ seminary studies and prepare them for impactful gospel ministry in their communities.