As I read Acts 13-l4, I was struck by the difficulty of the mission Paul and Barnabas received as they were commissioned; it says that as they  (the prophets and teachers at Antioch) ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”  And as they went and were faithful to that call, they chose over and over to suffer rejection and persecution.  Even the cities who once received the message of salvation turned and were persuaded by the Jews to stone Paul in 14:19.  I also was challenged by the way they were so committed to being led by the Spirit that it mentioned several times in these two chapters alone that they set aside a period of prayer and fasting.  The result was a ministry that was powerful; the result was that God used them to speak truth mightily, that hearts are turned toward the Truth.  God’s anointing on them gave them discernment not only in dealing with individuals, like in 13:9-12, but also discernment to God’s leading and directing in where to go and preach the gospel.

God, I want to attack the mission you have assigned me to with the same fear of God, passion, and unwillingness to be swayed.   God forgive me for sometimes charging ahead without seeking your direction.  I know that without You I can do nothing that is worthwhile, but I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.  I believe that each of us is called, set apart for God’s purpose and that if we are obedient to be led and seek him with all our hearts, he will answer, he will direct us and use us mightily!

Anna Estrada