David & Vicki Creel
David & Vicki Creel serving with FEBC USA & Asia
What motivates me?
Each day is a gift from my Creator. Many need to know the hope, love, and eternal peace that they can have through a personal relationship with a loving Savior and Lord Jesus Christ.
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” – Jesus Christ, Matthew 11:28- 30 (The Bible NKJV)
Reading: Acts 8:1- 25,
Key verse: “Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you.” Acts 8:22 (NKJV)
Persecution against the followers of Jesus continued and increased especially after the death of Stephen (Acts 8:1-3). Many of Jesus’ followers were scattered and went everywhere preaching the Gospel (Acts 8:4). Philip, one of the disciples, went to Samaria. With signs, wonders, and miracles many heard and received the Word of God preached by Philip. Many were delivered from unclean spirits. One of them was a man named Simon. In his past life, Simon practiced sorcery and had astounded many people. He became famous and misled many people into thinking he had special powers from God. When Simon saw many people turn to God through the words of Philip, he along with others believed and were baptized (Acts 8:9-13). Then Peter and John came to the city to visit Philip and the new believers. Simon saw that through the prayers and laying on of hands by Peter and John, many were baptized with the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:14-17). Simon asked for this same ability and offered the apostles money to receive the power to impart the Holy Spirit to others (Acts 8:18-19).
Peter admonished Simon that this gift of God is not bought with money (Acts 8:20).
Then Peter, through the revelation of the Holy Spirit, exposed the heart of Simon, the former sorcerer.
“You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.” Acts 8:21-23 (NKJV)
Simon the former sorcerer who tricked many people with his magic, received and believed the Word of God that Philip preached. Simon even got baptized. However, his heart was still not completely changed. Peter, John, and Philip were just like us, mere human beings. They had no power to see into the hearts of men nor the ability to read someone’s mind. However, through the power of the Holy Spirit, it was revealed to them what was going on inside Simon’s heart and mind.
Reflection:
Only the Lord God and His Holy Spirit know the thoughts and hearts of every person.
“I the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give every man according to his ways.” Jeremiah 17:10 (NKJV)
Sometimes, there are situations when the Holy Spirit reveals the intents of the heart and thoughts of someone to a follower of Jesus for a specific purpose. It’s not to embarrass nor to humiliate a person. It’s to help the person to repent and truly believe in God’s power, mercy, and forgiveness. When Peter encouraged Simon to repent, Simon said,
“Pray to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken may come upon me.” Acts 8:24 (NKJV)
Thought for the Day:
The Holy Spirit has the power to give a follower of Jesus to see through the hearts of people to encourage or give them admonition.
Prayer:
Holy Spirit I open my heart to You. Search me and know my heart; see if there is any wicked way in me. Please forgive me of anything that is not pleasing to our Father God. Help me also be open to others encouragement and admonition. In Jesus name I pray, amen!
Your Thoughts:
Your Prayer:
Reading: Acts 7:1-60
But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Acts 7:55 (NKJV)
Stephen was one of the seven men highly chosen to be part of the leadership in the new church (Acts 6:1-5). Stephen was a man full of faith and power (Acts 6:8). He was willing to serve the Lord Jesus in whatever capacity was needed, whether it was a great or small act of service. He was part of the leadership team distributing to the needs of the widows (Acts 6:1-2). He was also an evangelist, speaking the Gospel of the Lord Jesus to the Jews (Acts 6:9-10). Stephen, through the power of the Holy Spirit, did great things for the Lord Jesus. He was a man of faith, full of wisdom in the Word of God. The Holy Spirit gave wisdom to Stephen in understanding the word of God in the Old Testament, as he related the history of Israel and made the connection of Jesus as the Messiah (Acts 7:52). Stephen also had the courage and audacity to speak the truth and reprove the elders and religious leaders of Israel (Acts 7:51-53).
However, speaking the truth and the Word of God cost him his life. Stephen was condemned to death without due process of the law. Stephen was stoned to death because of his audacity and stance for the Lord Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah and Savior (Acts 7:58). Still Stephen was steadfast in his faith, and the Holy Spirit allowed his eyes to see the heavens opened.
“But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.” Acts7:55 (NKJV)
With his last breath, Stephen was welcomed by the Lord Jesus and God the Father into his eternal home in heaven.
Reflection:
As followers of our Lord Jesus, when we obey His call to share and preach the Good News of salvation, the Holy Spirit gives power and courage. Even amid opposition and hostility, the Holy Spirit gives audacity to stand for our faith just like Stephen. The Holy Spirit also opens eyes to see the glory of God even at the end of life.
Thought for the Day: As followers of Jesus, when we stand in faith, the Holy Spirit can open our eyes to see the glory of God.
Prayer: Holy Spirit open my eyes to see the glory of the Lord. Help me to have power and audacity to share the Lord Jesus and His Word with others.
Your Thought:
Your Prayer:
Reading: Acts 6:1-7
Key verse: “… but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” Acts 6:4 (NKJV)
As the followers of Jesus continued to grow, a divisive issue came up among them (Acts 6:1-2). Some felt neglected in the distribution of food among the poor and the widows. The first disciples of Jesus became the church leaders and were called apostles. When the grievance was brought to the attention of the apostles, they all had a meeting together to address the issue – proper distribution to those who were in need. With the wisdom of the Holy Spirit, the apostles made a recommendation to appoint qualified men who were full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom to take care of the needs of the poor:
“…but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” Acts 6:4 (NKJV)
The apostles knew the heart of God and Jesus – to preach the Gospel of salvation, heal the sick, encourage the downcast, set people free from sin and evil, feed the hungry, etc. As the church was growing, the apostles realized the task of taking care of everyone and everything was beyond themselves.
As the Holy Spirit gave wisdom and guidance to the apostles to address the issue and meet the needs of everyone, they were able to keep their focus and priority, which were prayer and the ministry of the Word.
Staying connected to the Lord through prayer was very important for church leaders, so they would have the power and wisdom they needed to lead the new and growing church. The ministry of the Word – studying the Word of God so that they could preach and teach with power – was very important too for new believers and disciples to grow in their faith.
Besides freeing church leaders from unnecessary responsibilities, this plan also gave opportunity for other disciples to step up and use their skills, gifts, and talents which God had given them by helping the poor, the needy, and the widows. The apostles did not just choose or recommend any member, but highly qualified men who were full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom such as Stephen and the others. The church leaders also prayed and laid hands on them. Thus, the conflict was resolved, the issue was properly addressed, and the needs were met. As a result, the word of God spread more, and the number of disciples multiplied greatly (Acts 6:7).
Reflection:
For followers of Jesus, the Holy Spirit gives wisdom to resolve issues and meet needs. The Holy Spirit also gives wisdom to keep our focus and priorities straight as we follow the leading and call of God in our lives.
Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit, please give us your followers your spirit of wisdom to keep our priorities right. Amen!
Your Thoughts:
Your Prayer:
Reading: Acts 5:1-11
Key verse: “So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things.” Acts 5:11 (NKJV)
The disciples of Jesus were beaten and threatened by the Jewish religious leaders not to preach Jesus (Acts 4). However, the disciples continued to gather and pray. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, they had courage and strength to persevere in the faith. The followers of Jesus continued to grow in numbers. They shared everything including their earthly possessions (Acts 4:32-37). They lived and supported each other spiritually and materially (Acts 4:35). Then a married couple named Ananias and Sapphira joined the disciples’ group.
Ananias and Sapphira joined the group and told the apostles that they sold their property and gave all the money to them. However, through the Holy Spirit, Peter knew that they both lied and pretended that they gave all they had. Ananias and Sapphira were struck dead the same day (Acts 5:6-10). So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things. Acts 5:11 (NKJV)
The power and presence of the Holy God was strong upon the early church of the Lord Jesus Christ. This was the first church and the first-born church. They were also the first model of love, sharing in all things and caring for one another as they distributed to the needs of everyone. This was the very first church of the Lord Jesus Christ and His first disciples upon which the church was founded and built. Thus, God required perfection and holiness. It was God’s holy presence through the Holy Spirit that was with them, so God did not allow sin in their midst. Ananias and his wife committed sin and made plans to hide it thinking no one would know. They kept back part of the money and lied about it. But God is holy and would not tolerate sin. God did not allow lies, deceit, and sin in their midst. So, the couple received the just reward of death to stop sin in the camp. God knew the power of sin to destroy the church. God also wanted to express and demonstrate to the church that He was a holy God, righteous and just; there is no sin in Him.
God loves people but hates sin because He is holy. God requires the same standard of holiness in His church today. Holiness is the fear of the Lord. This is God’s plan for His church, the followers of Jesus, to be holy through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Aren’t you glad God does not do the same in His Church today like what happened to Ananias and Sapphira? As Peter wrote, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9 NIV)
Thought for Today:
The power of the Holy Spirit leads the followers of Jesus to revere and have the fear of God.
Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus thank You for sending Your Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit help us as followers of the Lord Jesus to be holy and fear God. Please forgive our sins and cleanse us by Your blood. Help us to be Your Bride, perfect and blameless. Help us obey Your Word. Amen.
Your Thoughts:
Your Prayer:
Bible Verses quotes are from Bible Gateway: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+5&version=NKJV
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dvc07.03.23
For people to know truth and true love that can only be found in the One True God, and Jesus Christ!
“Let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole.”
Acts 4:11(NKJV)
Reading: Acts 4:1-37
Peter and John were in Jerusalem. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, they healed the lame man who sat at the temple gate for a long time (Acts 3:1-10). Many people had witnessed the miracle and were greatly amazed (Acts 3:11). Peter with the power of the Holy Spirit encouraged the people to repent and believe in Jesus (Acts 3:19). The people listened to Peter as he shared the Word of God and many believed, about 5000 (Acts 4:4).
However, the religious leaders were not happy that they were talking to the people about Jesus. So, the religious leaders ordered the disciples to be arrested and beaten. The next day, the disciples were brought before the council of elders and priests. The disciples were asked, “By what power or by what name have you done this?” Acts 4:7 (NKJV)
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, replied to them with courage and said:
“..Let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole…Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” Acts 4:10-12 (NKJV).
The council of elders and religious leaders did not agree with the disciples about Jesus. However, they could not deny nor argue that the man who was lame from birth was miraculously healed! So, the council ordered the disciples to be beaten and severely threatened them not to preach in Jesus’ name.
Peter spoke with courage the truth as the Holy Spirit revealed it to him that Jesus is the only name under heaven given for people to be saved. The Holy Spirit gave Peter and the disciples power to declare Jesus to the people of Israel amid threats and violence against them.
Nowadays, Christians in some parts of the world also suffer persecution just like the first disciples of Jesus. Some of them experience severe threats and violence. Others are ridiculed by their own families and friends. Many risk their jobs, reputations, and even their own lives for the sake of following Jesus Christ. However, through the power of the Holy Spirit they continue to be steadfast in their faith, declaring that Jesus is the only way to God for salvation.
Thoughts & Reflection:
Jesus promised, “To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.” Revelation 3:21 (NKJV)
Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can declare Jesus is Lord even amidst persecution and opposition.
Prayer: I praise You Lord Jesus that You are the only way to God. Holy Spirit fill us with your power to share and declare that Jesus is the only way to God for salvation even when we face opposition and persecution.
Your Thoughts:
Your Prayer:
Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”
Acts 3:6 (NKJV)
Reading: Acts 3: 1-10
On the day of Pentecost (Jewish Festival of Harvest), the power of the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 2). They received new tongues or the ability to speak in different languages. They received power, courage, and strength to preach the Word of God. And many believed in the Word of God as they proclaimed the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus. About 3,000 new Believers were added to the group, many of them were Jews who were visiting from other nations. Peter became the leader of the disciples when he received power from the Holy Spirit.
One day, Peter and John were walking up to the temple and saw a lame man begging at the gate of the temple. (Acts 3:1-2). The mercy and compassion of the Lord Jesus came upon Peter to help the man. Peter knew that giving the man food or money would not really help the man in the long run. Even if he gave the lame man a large amount of money, the man would still be lame. Peter remembered that Jesus healed many who were sick when He was with them. With the power of the Holy Spirit, Peter declared healing to the lame man.
Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” 7 Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. 8 He jumped to his feet and began to walk. (Acts 3:6-8).
Thus, through His disciples, Jesus was able to continue His ministry of declaring the Word of God. The disciples also demonstrated the love and compassion of God through acts of kindness, miracles, and healings. This was a direct result also of being filled with the power of the Holy Spirit as Jesus promised them (See Acts 1:8).
The compassionate heart of God is to heal the sick, help the poor and make known His love and power. Jesus during His life and time on the earth, did the work of His Father, the Lord God. Jesus healed the sick, fed the poor and declared the Word of God to the people of Israel. In the same way, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ can receive the compassion of God to heal and help others. For 2,000 years, the followers of the Lord Jesus are still continuing His work of proclaiming the Kingdom of God through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Thoughts and Reflection:
Peter shared with the lame man the most precious thing he had – the faith and love of the Lord Jesus and His compassion to heal. The same power and spirit of compassion that Jesus had is also available to us, His followers, to heal the sick, to help others, and to proclaim the kingdom of God. As Peter said, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.” Acts 2:38-39
Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for Your compassion and mercy to heal the sick. Thank you, Holy Spirit for empowering those who follow Jesus to preach the Gospel and heal the sick.
Help me Lord Jesus and Holy Spirit fill me with your compassion to share the love of God with others.
Your Thoughts:
Your Prayer:
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“Then Peter said to them, Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38 (NKJV)
Reading: Acts 2:1-47
It was the day of Pentecost (Festival of Harvest) in Israel. The disciples of the Lord Jesus were gathered in Jerusalem since He had instructed them to wait there (Acts 1:4-8). About 120 of the followers of the Lord Jesus and eyewitnesses of His resurrection gathered in the Upper Room. As they prayed and worshipped, the power of the Holy Spirit came upon them. Each of them received the gift of speaking in tongues (Acts 2:3-4).
The Holy Spirit’s touch and power came to the disciples of the Lord Jesus on the day of Pentecost. They spoke a new language or spoke in tongues and gave witness to Jesus’s power and resurrection. The disciples obeyed the instruction of the Lord Jesus to wait in Jerusalem for the coming of the Holy Spirit.
About 53 days prior to this event, the disciples were all bereaved and bewildered with the death of their Lord Jesus on the cross. They were frightened for their lives and were in hiding (John 20:19). Then when they saw Jesus was alive and had risen from the dead, they rejoiced! However, after Jesus went back to heaven, they were not sure what to do. They went back to fishing (John 21). Even when Jesus commanded them to go and make disciples, they were still uncertain. But when they waited for the promise of the Lord Jesus, they all received the touch and the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4). Almost instantly they received power – new courage, strength, and boldness. Peter also received wisdom and knowledge in the Scriptures. The Holy Spirit gave Peter strength and boldness. Before the day of Pentecost, the zealousness and boldness of Peter were from his natural abilities and was limited. When Jesus was arrested and was on trial, Peter even denied Jesus. But when the power of the Holy Spirit came upon Peter, he became a changed man. First Jesus restored Peter and their relationship (John 21). Then through the power of the Holy Spirit, Peter became bold, courageous, and full of wisdom. He was able to stand up and witness for Jesus in front of many people. He became anointed and a powerful preacher for Jesus. On that day 3000 souls were added to the disciples!
Thoughts and Reflection:
Jesus changed Peter as well as the other disciples through the power of the Holy Spirit. As a follower of Jesus, the Holy Spirit can change me, too. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, the followers of Jesus can be empowered to be strong and courageous witnesses for Him so that others can know Him, too.
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, I praise You for sending Your Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit, please fill me like Peter with your spirit of wisdom, courage, and strength to be a witness for Jesus and to share your Word with others.
Your Thoughts:
Your Prayer:
The Creels' Catch 