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Day 21 Acts 11:19 Acts 11:19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. 20 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spoke unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. 22 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. 23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. 25 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: 26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. 27 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. 28 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar. 29 Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea: 30 Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul. After a storm, a rainbow. After a crisis, calm. It is also darkest before the dawn. There was a time of peace and growth in the early days of the church. Disciples and apostles journeyed through different cities and countries to spread the Word of God and preach salvation to God’s chosen people, the Jews, and many turned to Jesus as their Savior and Lord. It was also during this time two things happened – One, the disciples were called Christians for the first time, and two, Barnabas went to fetch Saul from Tarsus. As Christians, you’ve felt the peace of the Holy Spirit. Everything is calm. Your work progresses as it should. You even get those mountaintop highs in the Holy Spirit. It is a time you don’t want to see end, but you know mountaintop highs are only for a moment. During the time of peace, you want to make the most of the precious time afforded you. It is during that time, you get closer to God and feel His presence all around you. Those times are given for you to remember when crises arise, and Satan comes at you like a flood. Don’t forget your time of peace and calm. Don’t lose your faith. Arm yourself, the battle is about to commence. Father, thank you for times of peace and refreshing. Thank you for giving me opportunities to draw closer to You. Help me be ready for the battle, and never lose faith in You when Satan comes at me with his slings and arrows. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. Copyright © 1 February 2019 by Valerie Routhieaux Image courtesy of Pixabay