WHO IS YOUR EXAMPLE OF GODLINESS?
By Carolyn Dale Newell
Now a certain woman named Lydia Heard us. She was a seller of purple from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. The Lord opened her heart to heed the things spoken by Paul.
Acts 16:14 NKJV
Is there someone in your church, a mentor, a teacher, or the little Christian woman next door who You look toward as a godly example. If you lack that special person, may I suggest a woman from Scripture?
Lydia is a superb role model. She had a full plate, but she handled it. She was the best of Mary and Martha combined.
Lydia was a business woman, a sales rep for the purple dye used by royalty. God had blessed her because Her home was spacious enough to accommodate the Philippian church (Acts 16:40). Let’s unpack the qualities this busy woman possessed. Qualities we desire.
First, Lydia was a woman of fervent prayer. Paul and his companions found this group of women praying on the river bank. These Gentile women committed time to prayer, and they realized its importance. They had learned about the God of the Jews, and now, they communed with Him. Could it be as they prayed that day, they asked the Lord to increase their understanding? And then came Paul.
Lydia worshiped God with all the truth she knew at that point. She was teachable, and she desired to learn more. As Paul preached the gospel of Jesus Christ, “the Lord opened her heart.” Lydia’s entire household was baptized also. God reveals Himself and the truth to those who seek Him.
Yearn to learn more about Jesus. Yearn to learn Jesus more. The difference is life-changing.
Next, Lydia was a woman of faith (Acts 16:15). She was faithful in prayer, worship, and service. She had put complete trust in Jesus Christ. Her faith increased as she drew closer to her heavenly Father.
Finally, Lydia was a woman of service. She opened her house to Paul and his friends. She fulfilled the commandment to love one another through her hospitality.
How much time did we spend in prayer today? In God’s Word? In worship? Worship is not reserved for Sunday only.
What about our faith in God? Does it grow? Can it move mountains? Are we faithful in all these areas? How do we serve God and His church?
Lydia was committed to prayer, worship, faith, and service. In addition, she managed her career. Today, how can we begin to live like this lovely seller of purple?
Lord, we ask You to examine us. Help us become mighty prayer warriors, faithful worshippers, and servants to You. Guard our time that we can live a life pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
DIG DEEPER
Read Acts 16:13-15.
HIKING THE TRAIL
Prayerfully consider the questions in the devotional. What areas can you spend more quality time on?
Copyright 2018 Carolyn Dale Newell.
A Mountain of Faith 