33 Even at that hour of the night, the jailer cared for them and washed their wounds. Then he and everyone in his household were immediately baptized. 34 He brought them into his house and set a meal before them, and he and his entire household rejoiced because they all believed in God. Acts 16:31-34 (NLT)
Notice the unexpected turn of events of this dreadful night. From being responsible for harm to Paul and Silas to nursing their wounds and restoring health and strength to them, the jailer’s life and his family are forever changed. Their faith produces a deep compassion toward the two missionaries. Peace and trust in God change people.
A new life in Christ was cause for celebration. The jailer and his household believed and were baptized. Following this life-changing event, a meal was shared with rejoicing and praise because they all believed in God.
Genuine faith produces a real relationship with God through His Son, Jesus. A real relationship with Jesus changes people. God, through His Holy Spirit doesn’t leave us as He found us. He turns our hardness into tenderness. He exchanges the callousness into compassion. The longer we walk with Jesus toward the Father, the more the Holy Spirit causes our lives to change in unexpected ways. Sometimes, after awhile of the journey with Christ, we no longer recognize our old self. These amazing changes come when we surrender our ways to God’s ways.
TRUE FAITH LIVED OUT CAN CHANGE ANY HEART UNEXPECTEDLY.
Let’s Pray:
Dear God,
You love me so much that You save me and transform me to be like Christ. Thank You. God, please help me to know You more through the Bible. Please help me to build a closer relationship with You. Help me to trust You, to find comfort and strength in You when life is more than I can bear. Help me handle setbacks in a way that shows others I am going to be ok because I believe in You. Help my faith draw others to faith so they will put their trust in Jesus. Thank You God, in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.