1.13.23 - Acts 13

Scripture

Acts 13:2

While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”

Observation – What does it say?

Several of the church leaders were worshiping and fasting together in Antioch, when the Holy Spirit spoke and gave direction for Barnabas and Saul.

Understanding – What does it mean?

Clarity and direction are a byproduct of fasting and drawing near to God in worship.

There are so many decisions we make daily. Small decisions like a purchase on Amazon or how we’re going to respond to the guy who just cut us off. We also make big decisions that will impact where we live and work and serve, who we have relationship with, how we will spend our future, etc. In each decision, we can lean on our own understanding and just go with what seems best, we can lean on others to make decisions for us, or we can allow God to lead us. Following Jesus means that we allow him to lead us.

“Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” (Ephesians 5:17)

“And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.” (2 Cor 5:15)

Like Jesus, I want to be in step with what the Father is doing and to be able to say, “I only do what I see my Father in heaven doing.”

This time of worshiping and fasting for Barnabas and Saul (AKA Paul) led to them being thrust into one of the most fruitful and truly world-changing missionary journeys. If they hadn’t been seeking God in fasting and worship, would they still have heard God’s call? Would they still have been used by God in such great ways?

Life Application

This encourages me as we are in the middle of our 28 days of prayer and fasting. I am expecting and anticipating God to speak to each of us, giving us direction and guidance for the future. Who knows what fruitful and world-changing assignments he might speak to us about as we fast and seek him together!

God, we want to be positioned to hear and receive direction from you. As we fast and pray and worship, please speak to us and reveal to us your will for us personally and as a church. Amen.

-Levi Thompson