You Can Stop Keeping Score
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
I’ve spent a good part of my life as a list-maker. There have been word counts and workout logs. I’ve had homeschool lesson plans checked off in neat rows. As a health coach, I even teach people to track their habits, because tracking helps us grow. But somewhere along the way, I started bringing my score card to God.
For years, I even treated rest like a reward. It was the shiny prize I’d allow myself only after everything was done. After the house was clean. After the deadlines were met. After I felt I’d sufficiently proved I had “done enough.” But that finish line never arrived. There was always one more dish, one more email, one more need.
And if I couldn’t rest until I’d earned it, I started wondering if God felt the same way about me. Did I read my Bible long enough today? Was I patient enough with my kids? Did I serve enough, give enough, do enough?
Some days I felt pretty good about my numbers. Other days, I felt like I’d failed before breakfast. Maybe you know that feeling, too. And if you do, I have good news: God never asked you to keep score.
The Law Still Matters
When a religious leader asked Jesus which commandment was the greatest, Jesus summed up the whole law in two lines: Love God with everything you are, and love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:36–40). That sounds simple until you try to do it perfectly. I can’t make it through a single grocery store trip without falling short of loving my neighbor as myself!
I remember one Tuesday when I was on a tight book deadline, my grandmother who lived with us needed help with her medication, the laundry from my eight kids at home was plotting a takeover of the living room—and I burned dinner. I looked around and felt like I was failing at everything. I wasn’t the Proverbs 31 woman. I was her tired cousin who burned the flax. My score card that day? All red marks.
Yet Jesus didn’t throw out God’s law because we couldn’t keep it. He said, “I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them” (Matthew 5:17). The law still shows us God’s holiness. It just was never meant to be our ladder to heaven.
Where Justice Was Satisfied
Here's the hard truth: "The wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23).
God is just, and justice doesn’t look the other way. But here’s the beautiful truth: Jesus took that penalty for us. On the cross, God didn’t lower His standard. Instead, He paid it Himself.
Romans 3:26 says God is both “just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.” Both. Not one or the other. God’s justice and God’s mercy met at the same place.
I know this personally. When I came to Jesus as a pregnant teen, I had no good score to show Him. My prayer was simply, “God, I’ve screwed up my life big time. If You can do anything with it, please do.” My scorecard was empty. No, it was worse than empty.
And yet, for years afterward, I tried to make payments on a debt that had already been paid. If I served enough, wrote enough, mentored enough young moms, maybe I could balance the scales. It took me a long time to realize the bill had already been stamped “Paid in full.” That means my salvation isn’t based on how well I did this week. It’s based on what Jesus finished.
Where Righteousness Was Given
Justice deals with what we owe. But there’s another side: what we lack. God’s standard is perfect righteousness, and none of us can reach it. Jesus, fully God and fully human, lived the sinless life we couldn’t live. And then something amazing happens:
"God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." —2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV)
Think of it like this. My scorecard was full of red marks. Jesus took my card and covered it with His, this one with every line perfectly complete. When God looks at me, He sees Christ’s record, not mine.
I got a picture of this on one January adoption day in our home. Four sisters—ages 15, 13, 13, and 11—had moved in with us the summer before. On that winter day, the adoption became final. By evening, we officially had four more Goyers.
Those girls didn’t earn our name. They didn’t have to prove they were good enough or fill out a score card. The moment the adoption was final, everything that came with being a Goyer was theirs. That’s what God has done for us in Christ. We don’t work our way into His family. We’re welcomed in and given His name.
Free From Proving Ourselves
This is where my heart gets happy. If righteousness is a gift, I don’t have to earn it. If Jesus already paid, I don’t have to pay again with guilt, overworking, or performing for approval. Pride loses its grip, because there’s nothing left to brag about. And shame loses its grip, because there’s nothing left to make up for.
Friend, I still make lists. I still track my workouts. But I no longer track my worth. That was settled at the cross. And this gift isn’t just for people who grew up in church or know all the right Bible words. It’s for everyone who believes, no matter their background, their history, or how messy their scorecard looks right now.
I’ve seen this up close in the Czech Republic. In 2000, I stood on the Charles Bridge in Prague for the first time, and God planted a burden in my heart for the Czech people that has never left. The Czech lands gave the world the Moravians, whose prayer and faith sent missionaries around the globe. Yet today, it’s one of the least religious countries in Europe, and many people I meet there have no church background at all.
That’s exactly why the gospel is such good news there. No one there has a head start. No one is too far behind. Grace meets every one of us on the same level ground. So today, set your scorecard down. You don’t have to prove anything to God. Jesus already did.
A Prayer for Today
Lord, thank You that my standing with You doesn’t depend on my performance. Thank You, Jesus, for taking the penalty I deserved and giving me Your righteousness instead. When I start keeping score again, remind me that it is finished. Help me rest in Your grace and love others out of that freedom. Amen.
Come With Me to the Czech Republic!
After twenty-six years of praying for the Czech people, I’d love for you to see what God is doing there with your own eyes.
In August 2027, I’m leading a trip to the Czech Republic, and I’m inviting Christian individuals and families to join me. Together, we’ll experience Prague, walk where the Moravian story began, and meet Czech church planters who are sharing this same message of grace with people who’ve never heard it.
If you’ve ever wondered what it would look like to see God at work across the world—or to let your family’s faith grow through serving together—this is your invitation.
👉 Learn more and sign up at CzechVisionTrip.com or visit the 2027 Prague Experience page.
Additional Resources
Running on Empty Isn’t Your Calling — If you’ve been trying to prove your worth by pouring out until there’s nothing left, this book is for you. Alice Crider and I unpack the martyrdom myth in motherhood and show you a better, grace-filled way to live. Releasing April 6, 2027. Preorder your copy here.
Heart Happy: Staying Centered in God’s Love Through Chaotic Circumstances — For every woman who’s tired of performing, a guide to finding joy by centering your life on God’s presence, not your performance. Order your copy here.
Walk It Out: The Radical Result of Living God’s Word One Step at a Time. My story of learning to obey God one step at a time, from pregnant teen to adoptive mom to Czech mission trips. Get your copy here.
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
November 2
Mark 14:53-65, Matthew 26:57-68, Mark 14:66-72, Matthew 26:69-75, Luke 22:54-65, John 18:25-27, Mark 15:1, Matthew 27:1-2, Luke 22:66-71, Matthew 27:3-10
The Trial of Jesus
Today, we find ourselves walking through one of the most significant moments in history—Jesus’ trial before the high priest and His subsequent denial by Peter. It was a long, difficult night for Jesus and His disciples. After being taken into custody, Jesus was brought before the high priest, Caiaphas, where accusations against Him began to pile up, many of them conflicting and false.
At one point, the high priest directly asked Jesus, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” to which Jesus answered, “I Am.” This response sent shockwaves through the room. Caiaphas, accusing Him of blasphemy, declared Jesus guilty, and those present began to spit on and strike Him. As if His suffering wasn’t enough, Peter—one of Jesus’ closest friends—denied Him three times, just as Jesus had foretold. When the rooster crowed, Peter realized what he had done and wept bitterly.
The word “trial” takes on a double meaning here. Jesus faced a legal trial before the authorities, but He also underwent a deep spiritual and emotional trial, testing His obedience to the Father’s plan and His endurance through immense suffering.
The word “Gethsemane” itself gives us insight into the intensity of this moment. It means “a place for pressing oil,” which paints a vivid picture of the crushing weight of the world’s sins pressing down on Jesus, just as the heavy stone slabs in an olive press squeeze out the last drop of oil.
Peter, though loyal in his heart, experienced his own trial. Fear overtook him, leading him to deny the very Savior he had promised to follow to the end. Jesus, aware of Peter’s weakness, foretold this failure, but He also knew Peter would be restored. This shows us the beauty of grace: even when we fail, restoration is always possible.
Word of the Day: Trial
Definition: A formal examination of evidence before a judge in order to determine guilt in a legal case; a test of the performance, qualities, or suitability of someone or something.
Enduring Trials with Faith
In our reading today, we are reminded of the trials that we, as followers of Jesus, will face in life. We can learn three crucial lessons from Jesus’ trial:
- Standing Firm in Faith: False accusations may come, and we may find ourselves tested beyond our limits. Just as Jesus remained steadfast during His trial, we too must stand firm in our faith, knowing that God is our ultimate judge.
- The Importance of Humility: Even in the face of betrayal and injustice, Jesus demonstrated profound humility. As we navigate our trials, we are called to walk in humility, following His example, even when we are wronged.
- The Reality of Failure and Restoration: Like Peter, we will stumble. We may even deny our Savior in moments of weakness. But just as Jesus foretold Peter’s restoration, He also offers us the grace to return, be restored, and continue walking with Him.
Trials are an integral part of our journey with Christ, whether they come in the form of accusations, personal failures, or spiritual testing. But through it all, we are reminded that Jesus walks with us, offering grace and strength to persevere.
November 3
Mark 15:2-5, Matthew 27:11-14, Luke 23:1-12, John 18:28-40, Mark 15:6-15, Matthew 27:15-26, Luke 23:13-25, John 19:1-16, Mark 15:16-20, Matthew 27:27-31
Rejection and Redemption
Today, we continue our journey through the final hours of Jesus’ life, and it’s hard to read about the painful rejection He faced at the hands of so many. From Pilate to Herod, from the crowds to His own disciples, rejection was a common theme.
In Mark 15:2-5 and Matthew 27:11-14, we read about how Pilate, though aware of Jesus’ innocence, bowed to the pressures of the crowd. Pilate, the Roman governor, struggled to find fault in Jesus, yet the cries of the people to “crucify Him” outweighed the truth he saw. Jesus was rejected by His own people.
Moving to Luke 23:1-12, we see that Herod was also involved in Jesus’ fate. Herod mocked Jesus, wanting to see Him perform miracles like some kind of spectacle. When Jesus did not meet his expectations, Herod sent Him back to Pilate, confirming his own rejection of Jesus.
John 18:28-40 shows us the political maneuvering of the Jewish leaders as they handed Jesus over to the Roman authorities. And again, we see Pilate desperately trying to avoid condemning Jesus, offering the crowd a choice to release either Jesus or the criminal Barabbas. The crowd chose Barabbas.
But Jesus’ rejection didn’t end there. In John 19:1-16 and Mark 15:16-20, we see Him endure further humiliation and pain. Jesus was scourged, mocked by soldiers, and dressed in a purple robe with a crown of thorns pressed into His head. They laughed at His claims to kingship, saluting Him with “Hail, King of the Jews” as they spat on Him.
Finally, Jesus was led to His crucifixion. Matthew 27:27-31 describes how the Roman soldiers took Jesus, stripped Him, and then forced Him to carry the cross on which He would die.
Word of the Day: Rejection
Definition: Refusing to accept or acknowledge someone; abandonment.
The word “rejection” means “to cast away after thorough investigation (testing); to reject after determining something is useless (unworthy).” Isn’t it sobering to think that Jesus, our Savior, was cast aside as unworthy by the people He came to save?
Yet, in this rejection, God’s plan of redemption unfolded. Jesus’ rejection was the very pathway through which salvation came to us. His suffering was not in vain; it was necessary to fulfill God’s divine purpose.
Turning Rejection into Redemption
The trial and rejection of Jesus carry profound lessons for us today. Rejection is never easy to face, but we must remember that it can be a stepping stone to something greater—just as Jesus’ rejection paved the way for the world’s redemption.
- Rejection as Growth: In our moments of rejection, whether from people, opportunities, or circumstances, we can grow closer to God. James 1:2-4 reminds us that the testing of our faith produces perseverance, leading to maturity.
- Grace in the Pain: Like Jesus, we are not alone in our moments of rejection. When we are rejected, grace enters, offering us healing, strength, and the reminder that God has a purpose for our pain.
- Redemption through Jesus: Jesus’ rejection was not the end, and neither is ours. Jesus endured rejection so that we could be accepted by the Father, and through Him, we find hope, healing, and salvation.
When rejection comes, let’s remember that we have a Savior who endured the ultimate rejection to bring about our redemption. His grace covers our pain, and His love gives us hope.
November 4
Mark 15:21-24, Matthew 27:32-34, Luke 23:26-31, John 19:17, Mark 15:25-32, Matthew 27:35-44, Luke 23:32-43, John 19:18-27, Mark 15:33-41, Matthew 27:45-56, Luke 23:44-49, John 19:28-37
Journey to the Cross
Today’s reading leads us through the intense suffering of Jesus on His journey to the cross, starting with Mark 15:21-24 and Matthew 27:32-34, where He carried His cross to Golgotha, “the Place of the Skull.” Because of His weakened state, a man named Simon of Cyrene was compelled to help carry the crossbeam. Simon, likely there for the Passover after traveling from North Africa, bore the burden alongside Jesus in an act that would mark him and his family’s lives forever.
In Luke 23:26-31, Jesus, in the midst of His suffering, paused to speak to the women mourning for Him, foretelling the trials and suffering that awaited the people. His words reveal the coming judgment but also foreshadow His redemptive plan for humanity. And as we move through Mark 15:25-32 and Matthew 27:35-44, we reach the crucifixion itself. Jesus was crucified between two criminals, mocked by the people and religious leaders, and yet, He promised paradise to the repentant criminal beside Him, showing that grace knows no boundaries.
As we continue in John 19:18-27 and Mark 15:33-41, the intense, dark hours of the crucifixion are described. Jesus hung on the cross, enduring mockery, while the soldiers divided His garments and cast lots for His seamless tunic. Even in His pain, Jesus acknowledged His mother, entrusting her care to His beloved disciple, John, exemplifying love even in His final hours.
Then, from Matthew 27:45-56 and John 19:28-37, we read of the final moments—darkness covered the land, the earth trembled, and the Temple curtain tore in two as Jesus breathed His last, saying, “It is finished.” His death was the ultimate sacrifice, and the fulfillment of prophecy.
Word of the Day: Crucified
Definition: To be put to death by nailing or binding to a cross, an ancient punishment, often reserved for the worst criminals.
The crucifixion of Jesus represents the ultimate sacrifice, bearing the weight of humanity’s sins. He endured physical pain, mental anguish, and rejection. In this sacrifice, Jesus opened the way to salvation, offering us hope, grace, and forgiveness.
The Cross: A Pathway to Redemption
- Jesus Bore the Full Weight of Suffering: Jesus refused the numbing myrrh-laced wine, showing us His commitment to endure every ounce of suffering on our behalf. His resolve reminds us that, though trials are painful, God’s purpose can bring hope and healing.
- Compassion Even in Agony: Jesus, despite His anguish, paused to console the women mourning for Him. His empathy shows us that in our moments of suffering, we too can find strength to care for others.
- Our Sins Were Carried on the Cross: The cross wasn’t merely a physical weight; it symbolized the weight of our transgressions. Our good deeds alone cannot lead us to salvation; only by accepting Jesus’ sacrifice can we find the forgiveness we so desperately need.
- Forgiveness is Always Available: Even in His final moments, Jesus offered forgiveness to the criminal on the cross. This powerful act reminds us that no matter our past, repentance and faith open the door to eternal life.
As we reflect on the journey to the cross, we remember that Calvary is enough. Jesus paid it all, offering us redemption and eternal life through His sacrifice.
November 5
Mark 15:42-47, Matthew 27:57-61, Luke 23:50-56, John 19:38-42, Matthew 27:62-66, Mark 16:1-8, Matthew 28:1-7, Luke 24:1-12, Mark 16:9-11, John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:8-15
He is Alive!
Today’s reading is one of celebration, awe, and indescribable hope. We start with Mark 15:42-47 and Matthew 27:57-61, where we see the burial of Jesus by Joseph of Arimathea. Though a respected Jewish council member, Joseph had previously been silent during Jesus’ trial. But here, he boldly steps forward, asking for Jesus’ body and laying Him in a tomb. Alongside him was Nicodemus, who brought myrrh and aloes, a final act of reverence for their Savior.
By Sunday morning, we encounter the unimaginable miracle as Jesus’ followers, still mourning and confused, arrive at the tomb. In Mark 16:1-8 and Matthew 28:1-7, Mary Magdalene and other faithful women find the tomb open. An angel appears, proclaiming that Jesus, the one crucified, is not here—He has risen! Imagine their joy, confusion, and awe as they raced to tell the disciples.
Luke 24:1-12 and John 20:1-18 capture more details, including Mary’s encounter with Jesus Himself, where, upon hearing Him call her by name, she recognizes her risen Lord. And in Matthew 28:8-15, as they spread the news, the Roman guards scramble to cover up the resurrection, yet nothing could silence the reality that Jesus had overcome death.
Word of the Day: Alive
Definition: Living, not dead.
The word “Alive” isn’t just about Jesus’ physical resurrection; it is a promise that our Savior is living and present in our lives today. Jesus’ resurrection was a victory over death and a fulfillment of God’s promise. Because He lives, we too can embrace new life, hope, and transformation.
Application:
Alive in Christ: A Resurrection of Hope
- Believe in the Resurrection for Yourself: The resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical event; it’s the foundation of our faith. For each of us, we must come to believe that He is alive—not just in our minds but in our hearts. Through Jesus, we experience new life and are invited to grow in faith and purpose.
- Embrace New Beginnings: Because of Jesus’ resurrection, we’re never without hope. He brings life to places that feel barren, filling our hearts with renewed strength and joy. Just as Jesus’ followers witnessed Him alive again, we can believe in our own “resurrections” in relationships, dreams, and personal growth.
- Share the Good News: Like Mary Magdalene, who eagerly shared the news of the empty tomb, we are called to be witnesses. Share your testimony of how Christ has renewed your life. His resurrection is the ultimate victory, and it’s a gift we are meant to give others.
- He Lives Within Us: Jesus’ resurrection means He is with us every day. We are never alone, and we are empowered to live fully for Him. I remember the day I first believed that Jesus was truly alive, not only as a concept but as a real Savior who could transform my heart. It changed everything. And today, Jesus is still transforming lives, guiding us, and filling us with hope.
November 6
Luke 24:13-43, Mark 16:12-13, John 20:19-23, Mark 16:14, John 20:24-21:25, Matthew 28:16-20, Mark 16:15-18, Luke 24:44-49
Sharing Love with the Nations
Today’s reading brings us to several transformative moments in the aftermath of Jesus’ resurrection. We see Jesus appear to His disciples on the road to Emmaus, in a locked room, and finally at the Sea of Galilee. Let’s dive into these passages to understand how they shape the core of our faith and calling.
The Road to Emmaus: Recognizing Jesus
In Luke 24:13-43, two disciples encounter Jesus while walking to Emmaus, but they do not recognize Him at first. It isn’t until He breaks bread with them that their eyes are opened, and they realize it is Jesus. This moment serves as a beautiful reminder that Jesus often meets us in our daily journeys, and sometimes, we see Him most clearly when we pause, break bread, and open our hearts.
A New Commission: Making Disciples of All Nations
In Matthew 28:16-20, we come to one of the most essential passages for believers—The Great Commission. Jesus calls His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey His teachings. This commission isn’t limited to the apostles; it extends to each of us as followers of Christ. We are tasked with sharing His message and helping others grow in their faith.
Empowered by the Holy Spirit
In John 20:19-23, Jesus breathes the Holy Spirit upon His disciples, empowering them to forgive sins and carry out His mission. It’s a reminder that we are not left to fulfill His calling alone; the Holy Spirit is our constant guide, source of strength, and comfort as we walk in faith.
Word of the Day: Nations
Definition: A large body of people united by common descent, history, culture, or language, inhabiting a particular country or territory. In the context of The Great Commission, “nations” also means “Gentiles” or non-Jews, reflecting the inclusivity of the gospel message.
Application:
Called to Make Disciples in All Nations
- A Divine Command, Not a Suggestion: The Great Commission isn’t simply advice; it’s a directive. Jesus entrusts us with this mission, empowering us to bring His light to all people, regardless of background or nation.
- Building Relationships: Every interaction we have is an opportunity to share the love and truth of Jesus. This might be through listening, offering support, or sharing how God has transformed our lives.
- Investing in Discipleship: Making disciples isn’t about gaining converts; it’s about investing in the long-term growth and faith of others. Discipleship is a journey of mentorship, accountability, and spiritual growth that we walk together.
- Empowered by the Holy Spirit: Jesus knew we couldn’t fulfill this mission alone, and that’s why He gives us the Holy Spirit. Pray for guidance and strength, trusting that He is with you every step of the way.
November 7
Mark 16:19-20, Luke 24:50-53, Acts 1, Acts 2
Witnesses to the Ends of the Earth
Today, we’re wrapping up the Gospels and diving into the book of Acts, where Jesus’ earthly ministry transitions to the disciples’ Spirit-empowered mission. Jesus’ final words commission them to spread the Good News far and wide, and He ascends into Heaven, giving them a momentous purpose: to be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and beyond.
But how could they accomplish this? They would soon learn—the power of the Holy Spirit would lead them every step of the way.
The Ascension: A Glorious Farewell
In Mark 16:19-20 and Luke 24:50-53, Jesus blesses His disciples in Bethany. With hands lifted, He’s taken up to Heaven to sit at the Father’s right hand. Though leaving, He reassures them that they won’t be alone. The disciples worship Him and return to Jerusalem filled with joy.
Acts 1: The Great Commission Extended Luke continues the story in Acts, where Jesus spends 40 days post-resurrection preparing the disciples, focusing on the Kingdom of God. The disciples, still curious about Israel’s restoration, are told to wait in Jerusalem. Jesus says, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Moments later, Jesus ascends into a cloud, but the angels assure He will return.
Acts 2: The Holy Spirit Empowers the Believers In Acts 2, the disciples gather for Pentecost, and the Holy Spirit descends upon them with “tongues of fire.” They begin to speak in languages previously unknown to them, proclaiming God’s wonders to a multicultural crowd. This miraculous moment sparks curiosity among the people, who ask, “What does this mean?”
Peter answers by preaching boldly, calling them to repentance. Thousands believe, and the early church forms, united by teaching, prayer, fellowship, and a shared mission.
Word of the Day: Witnesses
Definition: Witnesses are those who observe, testify, and share the truth of what they’ve experienced.
Called to Be His Witnesses
We, like the disciples, are called to witness the truth of Jesus’ love, redemption, and transformation. Here’s what we learn from Acts:
- Power in Waiting: The disciples waited for the Spirit’s arrival, teaching us that effective witnessing isn’t rushed. In our fast-paced lives, waiting on God enables us to be effective witnesses filled with His Spirit.
- The Holy Spirit Leads the Way: Acts 2 reminds us that witnessing isn’t about our words but the Spirit’s power. When we invite the Holy Spirit into our conversations, people will be curious and ask questions, making way for us to share Jesus authentically.
- We Are Witnesses: Our role isn’t to be the heroes of our stories; Jesus is. By sharing how He has transformed our lives, we invite others into the life-changing message of salvation.
As we read about the early church’s humble beginnings, let’s ask God for boldness and sensitivity to His Spirit, remembering that He’s called us to this Great Commission with a purpose that still reaches “to the ends of the earth.”
November 8
Acts 3-5
Boldness in the Name of Jesus
Today, we’re journeying with Peter and John, who are continuing Jesus’ work through the power of the Holy Spirit, fearlessly proclaiming the Gospel. In Acts 3, we witness the miraculous healing of a man at the temple gate, which draws the attention of the people and religious authorities alike. But while the people praise God, the leaders feel threatened. What follows is a powerful message of faith, boldness, and unity in the early church as Peter and John stand firm, no matter the cost.
A Miracle and a Message of Salvation
In Acts 3, Peter and John encounter a man who has been lame from birth. Rather than offering him silver or gold, Peter commands him to walk in Jesus’ name. And he does! This man, who sat at the temple gate day after day, suddenly jumps to his feet, praising God. The people recognize him, and Peter seizes the opportunity to proclaim the source of this miracle: faith in Jesus Christ.
As the crowds gather, Peter delivers a bold message about Jesus, calling the people to repentance. But soon, the religious leaders arrest Peter and John, questioning their authority.
Acts 4-5: Obeying God Above All
In Acts 4, Peter and John are brought before the Sanhedrin, the same council that condemned Jesus. They are asked, “By what power or in whose name have you done this?” Peter responds, filled with the Holy Spirit, proclaiming that salvation is found only in Jesus Christ.
The council is shocked by their boldness but eventually releases them, threatening them to never speak of Jesus again. Peter and John, however, declare that they must obey God rather than men. United, the early church prays for more boldness, and God answers, shaking the place where they pray.
In Acts 5, we see the church growing in generosity and unity. But the sobering story of Ananias and Sapphira reminds us that God desires genuine devotion. The apostles continue performing miracles, drawing crowds of people who are healed in Jesus’ name. The high priests, filled with jealousy, arrest the apostles again, but an angel frees them, commanding them to keep preaching.
Once more, Peter stands boldly before the council, declaring, “We must obey God rather than human beings.” While the council debates killing the apostles, a Pharisee named Gamaliel advises them to leave the apostles alone, saying if their movement is from God, it cannot be stopped.
Word of the Day: Bold
Definition: To be fearless in the face of danger, or to act courageously with conviction.
Living Boldly for Jesus
Today’s reading teaches us about living boldly for Jesus, no matter the cost:
- Boldness Rooted in Truth: Peter’s boldness came from his firsthand experience with Jesus and his knowledge of the Scriptures. He knew the truth and, empowered by the Holy Spirit, proclaimed it with courage.
- Obeying God Above All: When faced with opposition, Peter and John chose to obey God rather than the religious leaders. We, too, are called to prioritize God’s truth over human approval, trusting that His Spirit will guide us.
- Strength in Community: The early church prayed for boldness, and God answered. When we face challenges, prayer and unity in the body of Christ can strengthen us to stand firm in our faith.
Let’s ask God to empower us with His Spirit, giving us the boldness to share His truth, no matter the circumstances.
