Join the Womens Bible Cafe™ discussion for Acts: Awakening to God in Everyday Life by Melissa Spoelstra. Our online Bible Study groups are reading and discussing the Book of Acts. Come join us for the Acts Online Bible Study.

This week we talked about our childhood traditions and memories. Once we became adults, we implemented some of the traditions in our own family or created new traditions. For example, as a child, we spent summers at the lake house visiting my grandparents. After they passed away, my Mom continued the tradition and we looked forward to spending summers at the lake with our children. Every summer included a memory that we talked about throughout the year, as cousins gathered for laughter, iced tea, and mischief.

Open your Bible and turn to Acts 10:34 NLT: “God shows no favoritism.” Sometimes in our families or our careers, we see favoritism. Over the last several years in television entertainment, we have seen judging competitions with favorite contestants. Maybe you have a favorite author, musician, or celebrity. But here in the Bible, God has no favorites. What a comforting thought to know that we are all His beloved children.

Now turn your Bible to Acts 10:42-43 NLT: “And he ordered us to preach everywhere and to testify that Jesus is the one appointed by God to be the judge of all—the living and the dead. He is the one all the prophets testified about, saying that everyone who believes in him will have their sins forgiven through his name.”

Who will be judged and who will have their sins forgiven? If you look closely at the verse, “everyone who believes in Jesus” will be forgiven. But look at the words before this- “He will be the judge of the living and the dead.” This takes the pressure off you (and me) to judge others. We can stop making decisions about who is forgiven, what sins are worse than others, and who is going to eternal hell. Leave those decisions to Jesus!

Turn your Bible to James 2:12-13 NLT: “So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be judged by the law that sets you free. There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.” Based upon this verse, mercy has great importance in how we are judged by God! Perhaps we can take an inventory of how we give mercy to others and improve on the assignment from above.

Melissa Spoelstra writes a beautiful prayer on page 84 of the workbook. After reading this prayer, what religious tradition is God asking you to “hold loosely?” Maybe it’s time to look at the heart of God once again and seek His will. The best way to do this is with prayer.  Ask Him how you can encourage others who have walked into challenges similar to yours. Be His witness or ambassador when you share your transformation story. One of the challenges for today’s Christians is finding the balance between Pharisees and Biblical grace. Look at passages in your Bible for direction and clarity.

If you look at the spiritual activities list on page 92 of your workbook, you will find ideas for intentional faith. Perhaps you can add some of these to your spiritual toolbox in the weeks ahead!

Your testimony has the power to awaken others to God in everyday life. Let others know how He has moved in your life and how you are changing and maturing your faith. Be visible for Christ.

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Christine Abraham writes for the Bible Cafe™ community. Learn about living by the Fruit of the Spirit as you enjoy her online Bible studies. Join Christine at the Bible Cafe™ University for weekly Bible teaching.