Begin with two minutes of silence and stillness before God.
As Paul stands on a platform overlooking the group of people who want to have him killed, he begins to share how Jesus Christ changed his life. Paul tells them how he is just like them—a Jew who is familiar with the customs of the Jewish nation. He speaks about his passion for their God and their nationality. Paul then begins to share with them how his encounter with Jesus gave him a new perspective on life and a new passion for God.
Why do you think Paul is sharing his testimony with those who considered him an enemy? It may be because he knows their spiritual plight and has compassion for them. He understands their sentiment and can relate to them because that is who he used to be. That is who he was before Jesus changed his life. In Paul's mind, he is indebted to God and to these people. He needs to give back to them. He needs to be generous with his testimony by sharing how Jesus is the answer that they have all been looking for.
Stop and think about where Jesus has brought you from. Think about who you were before Jesus saved you. As you remember who you used to be, think about who you are today and where you want to be as you become more and more like Jesus.
Also, will you be generous with your testimony today? Will you look for an opportunity to share the story of how God changed your life? Will you share how God took you, a sinner dead in sin, and redeemed you for a life filled with purpose?
Take two minutes to reflect in silence.