Acts 14 | Renewed Endurance

Monday: Read Acts 14:1-7
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It is amazing to see how powerful words can be, used either to stir revival or provoke resistance. Paul and Barnabas “spoke in such a way” that many came to faith, suggesting their message was not delivered with dry facts but with conviction, clarity, and passion. At the same time, their opponents used words to “poison the minds” of others against the gospel, likely with similar intensity. Even more remarkable is that, despite the miracles God granted to affirm the message of grace, it was still the persuasive force of words, both for and against, that divided the people. This moment reminds us that words carry great spiritual weight, capable of building faith or fueling opposition.

Scripture reminds us that the power of life and death is in the tongue, and this scene in Acts is a vivid example of that truth. The words spoken by Paul and Barnabas opened hearts to the gospel, while the words of their opponent’s stirred confusion and division. It’s a sobering reminder that our words carry spiritual weight. Whether we are teaching, encouraging, correcting, or simply having a conversation, our words are shaping lives in ways we may not always see. As followers of Jesus, we are called to use our voices not to tear down, distract, or poison, but to build up, point people to truth, and glorify God. Let us be intentional with our speech, praying that our words would reflect the grace and truth of Christ in every setting.

Spiritual Practice: Building Up with Grace - A Practice of Encouragement

Words have the power to build faith or cause division. Inspired by Paul and Barnabas’ example, this practice encourages believers to intentionally use their speech to uplift, strengthen, and inspire others. Through prayer and reflection, we learn to speak life into the hearts of those around us, reflecting God’s love and truth in every conversation.

1. Pray for Eyes to See and Ears to Hear: Begin your time in prayer asking God to help you notice opportunities to encourage others. Ask for sensitivity to the needs and struggles around you so your words can be timely and meaningful.

2. Practice Intentional Encouragement Daily: Each day, deliberately speak a word of encouragement to at least one person. It could be a simple compliment, a scripture shared, or a genuine thank-you—anything that builds up their faith and spirit.

3. Reflect on Your Words Weekly: Take time once a week to review your conversations. Ask yourself: Did my words build others up? Did they reflect Christ’s grace and truth? Use these reflections to grow in intentional speech and humility.

Want to Dig Deeper?

Study: Proverbs 16:24, Ephesians 4:29, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Hebrews 10:24–25

Tueday: Read Acts 14:8-18
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In Acts 14, Paul heals a man who had never walked, a moment that strongly echoes the healing in Acts 3 when Peter healed a man lame from birth. Both men lived with the same lifelong struggle and were told to stand—and both were instantly healed. Yet their stories also show clear differences: one was a Jew, the other a Gentile; one responded by leaping and praising God, while the other quietly began to walk. These differences highlight a powerful truth—pain may look different from person to person, but it is something we all experience. Though the details vary, the human need for healing is shared, and the source of that healing remains the same in every story—Jesus.

This story serves as a powerful reminder that the pain, challenges, and hardships God has brought you through are unique to you—yet they are not without connection to others. There may be people around you quietly struggling with something similar, longing for hope. As God continues to bring healing into your life, He also invites you to walk with others and share your journey. You may not have faced exactly what someone else is facing, but your testimony of God’s faithfulness can offer encouragement, strength, and light to someone walking through their own valley.

Spiritual Practice: Testimonies That Strengthen - Sharing to Encourage

God doesn’t waste our pain. The healing and growth we experience are not just for us—they are also meant to encourage others walking through their own struggles. Just as Paul’s healing ministry reminded people of God’s power across different backgrounds and responses, your testimony has the ability to bring hope, healing, and faith to someone else. This practice helps believers reflect on their story and share it with intentionality to build up others in Christ.

1. Reflect on Your Journey: Set aside time in prayer to revisit a moment when God brought healing or transformation into your life. Write it down, focusing not just on the pain, but on how God met you in it. Ask God to show you who might need to hear this story.

2. Offer It Prayerfully: Don’t wait for the perfect moment—look for quiet opportunities to share your testimony in natural conversations. Keep your words honest and centered on God's faithfulness, not your strength. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your timing and tone.

3. Walk Alongside Someone: Don’t just share and move on—follow up. Whether it's through a text, a check-in coffee, or prayer support, continue to walk with that person. Encouragement grows deeper when it's ongoing and relational.

Want to Dig Deeper?

Study: Psalm 66:16, Romans 15:1–2, 2 Corinthians 1:3–4, Revelation 12:11

Wednesday: Read Acts 14:19-20
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Encouraging someone does not always require the perfect words Sometimes the greatest strength you can offer is simply showing up In this chapter Paul experienced intense highs and lows Fruitful ministry miraculous healing a crowd that tried to worship him and then brutal persecution that left him unconscious and dragged out of the city assumed dead Dirty bruised and likely emotionally drained Paul opened his eyes to see the faces of the disciples We are not told what they said only that they were there Maybe they stood silently offering relieved smiles quiet prayers or a steady hand to help him rise Their presence spoke more than words ever could

Luke’s silence about the disciples’ words might be intentional reminding us that comfort is not always found in speeches Perhaps none of them had experienced what Paul just went through but they were still there You may know someone walking through pain you cannot understand but that should not stop you from showing up Your presence alone can be a powerful source of encouragement Even when you do not have the right words or any words at all just being near can bring hope strength and healing.

Spiritual Practice: The Ministry of Presence - Encouraging Without Words

Encouragement is not always about what you say—it’s about how you show up. In Acts 14, when Paul was left for dead, the disciples gathered around him. Scripture doesn’t record their words, just their presence. In a world that often values polished answers and perfect responses, this story reminds us that sometimes the most Christlike act is simply being there. This practice invites you to become a source of strength for others by offering quiet support, steady companionship, and the love of Christ through your presence.

1. Identify Someone Hurting: Ask the Holy Spirit to bring to mind someone who may be walking through a difficult season—grief, burnout, illness, disappointment, or silence. Reach out with sensitivity, even if just to say, "I’m here."

2. Be Present Without Pressure: Visit, call, or sit with them without feeling the need to have the perfect words. Sometimes a quiet presence, a shared moment, or even a simple text saying, "I’m thinking of you" carries more comfort than any advice could.

3. Pray and Stay Available: Lift them up in prayer privately and ask God to give them strength. Continue to check in periodically—not just once. Ongoing presence reminds people they’re not alone, especially as the crowd thins after the crisis fades.

Want to Dig Deeper?

Study: Job 2:13, Romans 12:15, Galatians 6:2, 2 Timothy 1:16 

Thursday: Read Acts 14:21-23
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Did you know that your encouraging words could carry eternal weight? In Acts chapter 14, verses 21 through 23, Paul and Barnabas return to the very places where they had faced persecution, not to seek recognition but to “strengthen the souls of the disciples.” That phrase is deeply meaningful. They were not offering surface-level comfort or momentary inspiration. They were speaking courage, hope, and truth into the core of who these believers were—their eternal souls. Real encouragement can do more than lift someone’s emotions for a day. It reminds them of their identity in Christ, grounds them in what lasts forever, and helps them stand firm through every trial.

We live in a world where many are silently worn down by fear, doubt, or pain. Strengthening the soul means offering more than kind words or religious clichés. It means being present in love, speaking with sincerity, and continually pointing others back to Jesus. When you take time to encourage someone, pray that it reaches beyond the surface. Ask God to use your presence and your words to touch something eternal in them. Because when the soul is strengthened, it does not just bring comfort for today—it can echo into eternity.

Spiritual Practice: Strengthening Souls

True encouragement reaches deeper than compliments or temporary comfort—it strengthens the soul. When Paul and Barnabas returned to the places where they had been persecuted, they weren’t focused on their own reputation or safety. Instead, they chose to build up the faith of believers who were likely tired, afraid, or unsure. In a similar way, God calls us to speak words that anchor others in Christ, remind them of who they are, and help them persevere. Encouragement becomes eternal when it turns hearts toward Jesus and strengthens the soul for the journey ahead.

1. Speak to the Soul, Not Just the Struggle: When encouraging someone, ask God to help you speak beyond the immediate situation. Offer reminders of their identity in Christ—loved, chosen, forgiven, equipped—and the eternal promises they can hold onto.

2. Follow Up with Purpose: Encouragement is often most powerful when it’s consistent. Just as Paul and Barnabas returned to encourage the disciples, consider reaching out again in the coming days or weeks to continue supporting that person’s spiritual growth.

3. Pray Before You Speak: Before offering encouragement, take a moment to ask the Holy Spirit to guide your words. Let your encouragement come from a place of spiritual discernment, aiming to build faith and not just offer comfort.

Want to Dig Deeper?

Study: Isaiah 50:4, Acts 14:22, Colossians 3:16, Hebrews 3:13

Friday: Read Acts 14:24-28
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After their long and dangerous journey, Paul and Barnabas returned to Antioch, where their missionary journey had begun. This was not just a return home, it was a return to their spiritual family. The church had prayed for them, sent them out, and now gathered to hear all that God had done through them. There is something powerful about coming back to a place where you are known, loved, and supported. In a world that can be exhausting and discouraging, having a community that welcomes you back and celebrates what God has done can refresh the soul.

This moment reminds us of the importance of being a place of encouragement for others. Whether someone is returning from a mission, a personal struggle, or a season of growth, we can be the kind of people who listen, rejoice, and speak life into their story. You do not have to fully understand their journey to be a source of strength. Your presence, your prayers, and your joy in what God is doing can be exactly what someone needs to keep going. Let us become a community where people find rest, renewal, and the reminder that they are not alone in what God has called them to do.

Spiritual Practice: Becoming a Safe Place

After completing their mission, Paul and Barnabas returned not to solitude but to the loving arms of their spiritual family in Antioch. This community didn’t just send them—they celebrated them. They created space to hear testimonies, rejoice in God’s work, and offer encouragement. In the same way, we’re called to be a source of rest and renewal for those returning from their own journeys—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. We may not know everything they’ve endured, but our listening ears, open hearts, and shared joy can speak volumes. Encouragement isn’t just about words—it’s about presence, welcome, and celebration.

1. Make Space for Someone’s Story: Intentionally invite someone to share what God has been doing in their life—whether they’ve been away on mission, battling through hardship, or simply growing in a quiet season. Listen fully, without rushing or needing to respond with advice.

2. Celebrate What God Has Done: Rejoice with them—even if their journey looks different from your own. Offer words of affirmation that highlight God’s faithfulness, and reflect gratitude for how their life gives testimony to His grace.

3. Be a Place of Ongoing Rest: Let your presence become a reminder that they’re not alone. A meal, a prayer, or a heartfelt note can make a returning believer feel refreshed, seen, and supported for whatever comes next.

Want to Dig Deeper?

Study: Acts 14:27, Romans 12:15, Galatians 6:2, Philemon 1:7