Acts 5 - Lindsie's Comments

As we work our way through Acts 5 I am convicted and touched by several passages that are key for me. In the beginning of the chapter when we hear the account of Ananias and his wife "lying" to God and His reaction of striking them dead . This was such a powerful reaction and puts the "Fear of God" in my heart, challenging me to be honest most importantly in the eyes of God, not just men. As a people pleaser, I struggle with this at times.

Once gain I am touched by Peter and the apostles boldness as they face imprisonment and flogging for speaking about Jesus. I love their response in verse 29, "We must obey God rather than men." It seems that there becomes a time when we as believers must draw a line in the sand, so to speak, when it comes to doing the right thing. For them, it was a matter of prison or death when they choose to live for the Lord. When I look at my life, I feel I face similar situations except its not prison or death that I face, but merely the uncomfortableness of standing up to someone, being seen as an outsider, or giving up my personal time or comfort to do what I know to be pleasing to God. It seems so minuscule in comparison. . . Another challenge!!!

The last thing that stands out to me and just brings such joy are verses 38 - 39, when Gamaliel gives advice to his fellow Pharisees in regards to the apostles, "So in the present case, I say to you, stay away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or action is of men it will be overthrown; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them; or else you may even be found fighting against God." I just love this. Just a few of my thoughts. See you all Wednesday.