Inspirational Vitamin - "A Priestly Kingdom" - Exodus 19:1-8

In Genesis 15 and 17, God made a covenant with Abraham, promising to make the descendants into a great nation. Now the promise was being realized as God restated His agreement with the Israelite nation, the descendants of Abraham. God promised to bless and care for them. The people promised to obey Him. The covenant was thus sealed. But the good intentions of the people quickly wore off. Have you made a commitment to God? How are you holding up your end of the bargain?

Leaders touch a heart before they ask for a hand. Before God demanded His people keep His rules, He reminded them of His relationship and blessings. That gave them all the incentive they needed to follow through on commitment. The law of connection: God's covenant, God's rules.

Go, Proclaim the Good News - Matthew 10:1-15

The Jews were waiting for the Messiah to usher in His Kingdom. They hoped for a political and military kingdom that would free them from Roman rule and bring back the days of glory under David and Solomon. But Jesus was talking about a spiritual Kingdom. The Good News today is that the Kingdom is still near. Jesus, the Messiah, had already begun his Kingdom on earth in the hearts of His followers. One day the Kingdom will be fully realized. Then evil will be destroyed and all people will live in peace with one another.

Filling a Vacancy - Acts 1:15-26

This was the first church business meeting. The small group of 11 had already grown to more than 120. The main order of business was to appoint a new disciple, or apostle, as the 11 were now called. While the apostles waited, they were doing what they could-praying, seeking God's guidance, and getting organized. Waiting for God to work does not mean sitting around doing nothing. We must do what we can, while we can, as long as we don't run ahead of God.

God's Chosen Instrument - Acts 9:10-21

Immediately after receiving his sight and spending some time with the believers in Damascus, Saul went to the synagogue to tell the Jews about Jesus Christ. Some Christians counsel new believers to wait until they are thoroughly grounded in their faith before attempting to share the Good News. Saul spent time with other believers to learn about Jesus before beginning his worldwide ministry, but he did not wait to witness. Although we should not rush into a ministry unprepared, we do not need to wait before telling others what has happened to us.

A Light From Heaven - Acts 9:1-9

As Saul traveled to Damascus, pursuing Christians, he was confronted by the risen Christ and brought face to face with the truth of the the Good News. Sometimes God breaks into a life in a spectacular manner, and sometimes conversion is a quiet experience. Beware of people who insist that you must have a particular type of conversion experience. The right way to come to faith in Jesus is whatever way God brings you.

Content In All Circumstances - Philippians 4:10-20

Are you able to get along happily (be content) in any circumstances you face? Paul knew how to be content whether he had plenty or whether he was in need. The secret was drawing on Christ's power for strength. Do you have great needs, or are you discontented because you don't have what you want? Learn to rely on God's promises and Christ's power to help you be content. If you always want more, ask God to remove that desire and teach you contentment in every circumstance. He will supply all your needs, but in a way that he knows is best for you.

Befriended by Barnabas - Acts 9:22-31

It is difficult to change your reputation, and Saul had a terrible reputation with the Christians. But Barnabas, a Jewish convert, became the bridge between Saul and the apostles. New Christians (especially those with tarnished reputations) need sponsors, people who will come alongside, encourage, teach, and introduce them to other believers. Find ways that you can become a Barnabas to new believers.