Acts Reading GuideSample

Sometimes we all feel like giving up. We make promises to do better, we pray more or try harder in hopes of finding our way out of the funk. When even our best efforts don’t seem to work, God reminds us of the truth. He loves us and will never abandon us. This is the message of Jesus: while we were still sinners, he came to save us. Nothing we do will ever separate us from the love of God. Paul battled through tears, overwhelming opposition, loneliness and weariness, but he never gave up on his calling to follow Jesus. He did not attempt to do it alone. Throughout his ministry, Paul was surrounded by a community of believers. Some encouraged and helped him, others let him down, but he never gave up. 1) What does this passage teach us about God? How does it apply to you? 2) How does Paul’s testimony in verses 18–35 encourage you to share your faith? Has discouragement kept you from telling someone else about Jesus? 3) Paul says in verse 24 that he counts his life as nothing, except to finish the mission God has given him. Can you say that? What call ing has God put on your life? What can you do today to obey God’s call?