Remember the time Peter walked on water? It was an early morning on the Sea of Galilee, the day after Jesus miraculously fed the five thousand. The disciples saw Jesus walking toward their boat, holy feet standing steady on the waves. Peter, in his trademark zeal, asked to be empowered to do the same. “Lord, if it’s you,…command me to come to you on the water” (Matthew 14:28). Jesus offered a one-word reply: “Come.” So Peter did. He walked on water toward Jesus…until moments later when the sight of the wind and waves replaced his confidence with fear and he began to sink.
It’s an illustration so vivid that Peter’s hard-won lesson is impossible to miss. Like Peter, our central call is to stay focused on Jesus as He empowers us, through the gift of His Spirit, to do what we’ve been called to do.
This same Peter is a key figure in the book of Acts. Despite opposition and imprisonment, he consistently kept his eyes focused on Jesus as he helped build and lead the early Church. The book of Acts is the history book of the earliest Christians, like Peter, who were a brand-new community of Jesus-followers learning how to live out the gospel that had newly transformed every aspect of their lives and worldview. The inspiring, action-packed narrative recounts the spread of Jesus’s message and the growth of the early Church. But it’s important to remember that these first church planters and preachers were not superheroes; they were sinners saved by grace, ordinary people with an extraordinary Savior. The spread of the Church was fueled not by flawless strategy but by earnest faith in Jesus.
Pastor and theologian N. T. Wright notes that the book of Acts shows us how “the method of the kingdom will match the message of the kingdom.” The gospel is the good news of Jesus for the sinner, the suffering, the vulnerable, the misunderstood, and the overconfident. And the gospel is spread by these same unlikely ambassadors—not by their might or power but by the Holy Spirit living in and among them.
The birth of the early Church is the story of God’s kingdom alive in His people and spread by His Spirit at work in us. It is the true story of where we came from and where we are going. As you set out to read, ask God to guide you by His Spirit even now, training your eyes to focus on Him in carrying out the work He’s called us to do.
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227 thoughts on "The Ascension"
Hey!
Hello!
Hello sisters in Christ
I’m getting baptized for the second time tomorrow morning after falling out of faith. Thank you to my church family and thank you thank you Jesus.
God, show us how to lead with eyes on Jesus and a heart full of His Holy Spirit. Amen!
Let us be the church of Acts
Just started Acts! ❤️
I would like to join the Facebook group as well.
Amen!
I have been in another meeting this week, where the minister spoke of how Peter was looking at Jesus and walking on the water, but when he changed his focus to the waves and the storm, he sank. We don’t sink when our focus is directed on the Peace Speaker, we sink when we focus on our problems. Whatever you’re going through tonight, may you adjust your focus to the Peace Speaker and be calm in your thoughts and in your spirit. I’m looking forward to this study.
This is so good!! Thank you for sharing.
So true!!
❤️ Excited for this study
I just got my first daily reading guide and began. reading this morning. So excited to be on this journey with everyone. Love the book of Acts and I am looking forward to drawing deeper into the word and closer to God.
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Beautiful.
Jesus please pray for my mom’s health to get well as soon as possible.
Please Lord restore my Mom’s Health.
Looking forward to my first SRT!
So excited to be here and doing this study!
Lord Jesus please help my eyes read what you want me to read and my ears hear what you want me to ear and my heart stay steadfast on You. My hope for this new year is to grow closer to You. Amen.
I am excited to be reading Acts. Where is the Facebook group? That would be awesome to join as well!
I am excited to begin Acts! And welcome to all the newest members of SRT. We are happy you are here.
I’m excited to be starting the Book of Acts!
The book of Acts is one of my favorite. The “one accord” really stands out for me because once they were all on one accord the Holy Spirit came AMEN! Also, PETER!!!! Peter’s story for me is about focus but it is also about redemption AMEN! His come back and works in the early church show us that regardless of what our past looks like, if we are focused on Christ, God will use us and give us gifts of the spirit! Whoooooo hoooo I am hollerin honey this is good! Amen!
Yes! I love it too
Amen! Looking forward to reading it with everyone!
Love the layout of this study
The promised Holy Spirit is with me to empower to be and do all the Lord has called me to in this season. May I remain focused with my eyes stayed on Him!
My word this year is “focus” and my verse is Philippians 4:8… I love how the Lord is using this very first study to remind my heart to stay focused on Him.
First day so excited to be here
Happy study day 1!
In Acts 1:14 Jesus’s mother and brothers are specifically mentioned. I was curious to why that is. I didn’t know that in John 7:5 it mentions at the time of Jesus’s ministry his brothers didn’t believe him. Now here they are, praying in unity with fellow believers.
I’m thinking of how powerful the resurrection was. How I identify with the notion of not believing for a time, only to be shown the power and mercy of our savior and being completely transformed.
God is so good!
Advent 2025 was my first SRT study and I’m excited to do Acts now! Looking forward to the next 46 days
Same!
I can rely on the Holy Spirit for daily guidance. There are practical things I can do to allow the Holy Spirit to lead me.
Starting each day acknowledging the Spirit’s presence, immersing myself in God’s Word, pausing to listen before decisions, and obeying the gentle nudges that align with Scripture. In doing so, I honour the promise of John 16:7 and walk confidently, knowing the Advocate is guiding every step.
You can read the devotional on the website too, but I agree, I’m not sure why they don’t print it in the book. I would rather use my Bible for the Scripture and have the devotional printed
The books are printed quite a bit in advance of the studies, and I think the devotions are written closer to the study period.
100% agree with this!!!
agree, it would be easier but I don’t mind writing the devotions in the book guide
Yes!!! I agree with you!! I have been reading off and on since 2012 and that format is one reason I tire and decide to try other studies!
It’s beautiful to think about how simple earnest faith is possibly one of the most important things for our ministries as we go out into the world at our jobs, schools, and communities. I loved the podcast today mentioning that those who were unnamed were present and faithful. Something that I really want to seek this year as I serve in my community and beyond.
Ah..glad you mentioned the podcast! I really need to get back to listening to it! I also love your first sentence- how simple earnest faith is possibly one of the most important things for our ministries as we go out into the world at our jobs, schools, and communities! So good!
Excited to start SRT study through Acts with everyone! I’m also doing the New Years Forty Forty challenge through the book of Act. I pray to stay focused and excited to see what God has in store for each of us!
I love the book of Acts! So excited to go through it here with you ladies!
I just started my Faith journey this past year. Advent was my first study with SRT and I loved it. Looking forward to Acts. Can anyone explain the key a bit better to me?
I’m happy to try but not sure what you mean by key?
I have been studying with SRT for several years now, but in the spirit of vulnerable honesty, I think I’ve only fully completed one study… ever. Each time, I think “This is my fresh start. I’m going to make it a habit starting THIS time”. But I always find myself falling behind, and I tell myself I’ll try again with the next one. So, here’s to yet another fresh start. I’ve not been too active on the app/with the community before, so trying to add that into the routine as a sense of accountability. So hi friends. ❤️ hope you see me here more regularly.
Yay Justine! Glad you are here! You still learn whether you complete or not each time! :) But praying you stay with this study till the end!
You’re not alone, thank you for your honesty! Looking forward to this community for accountablity. ❤️
You can do it, Justine! We’ve got your back!
Hello ladies! I’m brand new to SRT and excited to start studying Acts. In 2025 I did a bible in a year club so I’m excited to do a deeper dive this year. A couple questions, I have the book but I’m bummed that the “devotional” part or the non scripture part is only in the app not in the book. Is that always the case?
Also, how do you keep up with the community with so many comments, that is something I couldn’t keep up with last year either.
Hello! I don’t have the book or the app, I have just used the SRT website for 10 years now. It gives the scripture, the devotional, then I read the comments! There are always more for Advent, Lent, and the first of the year! But the number decreases dramatically as the study goes on regardless. Throughout the rest of the year it is lighter. I am on Eastern time zone so there aren’t as many when I read through, but I come back at the end of the day. But we learn so much from the community- insights and wisdom from the scriptures, we pray for each other, and encourage one another, and more!
Hi Sandra! The comments do take some time and I don’t always get through all them every day – But I try because there is such good stuff shared by our sisters here.
I use the digital book and the website – the books have some background info and some extras, and I like to keep a copy of the studies because they do rotate off the website after a period of time.
The books are written and prepared in advance, and I think the devos are written closer to the study time and so can’t be included.
Where are the devionations?
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I am new here and looking forward to what God has in store for this study.
Welcome!
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I so enjoyed this study
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Is anyone else’s book bound wrong?? I have no day 1 – 2 in my book!
Me too Chloe
You can contact SRT at [email protected] for help. :)
Hi! We’re so sorry to hear this Chloe. Please reach out to our community engagement team at [email protected] for help!
I love how, in a way, we are all still living in the book of Acts. Our present-day story is a continuation of what Peter and his friends started. The story is still being written!
What a great insight! Thank you for sharing!
Love the way you captured this insight.
Love this!
One of my favorite people in the Bible is Paul. I’m excited to learn more about the journey of the early church!
Hi ladies, I’m back to work after a much needed 2 week break! Praying I can manage to get up somewhat earlier to do my reading in the morning before I start my day… but 5am comes so fast! I’m excited to study Acts with you all!
Prayers friend as your return, that the load feels a little lighter!
I’m excited to go through the book of Acts with you all.
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I’m praying for guidance and stillness to listen to God and learn about our early church history. Truly inspiring.
I’ve never read the book of Acts! I am excited to learn with you ladies :)
Is anyone else missing all of week 1 in the book? Mine jumps from page 15 to page 49
No, but so sorry you have an problem! I am sure SRT will speedily get you s new book!
This happened to me in the Advent study… it jumped from page 176 back to pages 145 happily there is the digital study and it was near the end of the study. I did let SRT know…. we can get the day’s study on line.
Yes! I found days 3 thru 8 a little thru it but am missing days 1 and 2 fully. Thank goodness for the online readings!
So sorry to hear you are missing pages Beth. Please reach out to our community engagement team at [email protected] for further help!
YES! Mine too!
Me too Justine
I’m so sorry to hear you are missing pages. Please reach out to our community engagement team at [email protected] for further help!
Welcome to all of our new Sisters!
I watched a show called Testament on the Angel network. It was so good and about the book of Acts. It was only one season and I’m hoping they make more.
I love the show also:)
Thanks Tricia, I subscribe to Angel and will watch this!
I loved that show
I knew and understood that the gospel spread by flawed people, but the way they worded it about the gospel being spread by flawed. People hit me in a very new way today.
Also, I’m always very amazed and humbled that God uses people like us.
I just love the book of Acts! I love how the disciples and others were filled with the Holy Spirit and became such a community together. Taking care of each other’s needs.
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The last sentence of the devotion is so good, “As you set out to read, ask God to guide you by His Spirit even now, training your eyes to focus on Him as you carry out the work He has called us to do.” — Thank you, Amanda. What stands out to me are the verbs: read, train, focus, do. These are not passive actions. They are invitations, and indeed, commands that the Lord gives us through the mission Jesus established. This is no small calling. Jesus did not say, “Make converts,” but “teach them to observe all” (Matthew 28:20). Not merely to recite a sinner’s prayer and move on, not to return to former ways of thinking and living, but to observe ALL, to submit every thought, habit, and understanding to renewal under His lordship. “Teaching them to observe all” implies a lifelong, obedient shaping/ development. This involves many commitments, not just belief. Some important commitments include intentional learning and renewing of the mind (thank you SRT for helping us with learning), practicing spiritual disciplines, accountability in a community (confess your sin to one another- discern who), being teachable/ coachable and open to counsel, learning both to give and to receive discipleship, daily obedience through ordinary life, last but not least, active participation in God’s mission- Amanda’s point (share gospel, serve, teach, model Christian life/habits/thinking to those who come after us). Lifting up prayers over our shes as I scroll down. Have a nice start to your week yall. Be blessed dear sisters.
Yes, important truth! It takes a want, an eagerness and love, discipline, commitment and obedience! We are here to Glorify Christ!
Well said, Mercy! ❤
Excited for this study!
I so enjoyed my reading this morning. It home that this is the story of where we come from. How our Savior truly cares and that his kingdom is truly alive in His people. I am so excited for this month in Acts and connecting with everyone here. Blessing for an amazing month for all of us!
My pastor did a deep dive on Romans 3:21-26 and asked us “what’s are you trying to do in your own strength?” Because of the Grace of God we are not bound by legalism and have been freed, a similar message to today’s John 16:7-14. He also said the Word of God is not a ladder to salvation it is a lantern into where we have fallen short but we have already been saved.
Those are good, thanks for sharing Martha!
although this isn’t my SRT study, it’s the first one i’ll actually be following along in real time with all of you! i know my soul NEEDS a community, but it’s been challenging to find one. admittedly, i haven’t been trying very hard (:
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I really loved the passage from John to accompany the first chapter of Acts, as i think it really reminds that we not only have the promise of Jesus’ return, but we also have the gift of the Holy Spirit to guide us through this sin-cursed world & to stay on the narrow path to him until he comes back to bring us to our Father.
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He could have left us with no guidance & a simple ‘figure it out on your own,’ But he didn’t. He gave us a Holy Counselor. God is so gracious, forgiving, faithful, loving & compassionate. Praise!
Yes, Amen to that Bri!! The more you comment the easier it is to get to know you and remember you…but if you stick with us, your will LOVE this community! You can also join us on our pravate FB Page, not the official public SRT page mind you, but just a group I created for us that do the studies regularly! Find it at SRT SHE’S and you must answer the question and answer with SRT or Acts..! And then you can introduce yourself and share a picture if you want!
Rhonda I just sent a join request to your FB group.
This is my 2nd study with SRT. I’m excited to be a part of this with all of you.
What is this FB group you mention? Where do I find it?
This is a great community, Bri! ❤ You are welcome here!
Happy Monday sweet She’s. I’m not up as early today as I don’t have to be at work till 8AM, (training) but starting tomorrow it’s back to VERY early rising. I “echo” Traci Gendron’s comment. My thoughts as well and asking the Holy Spirit to “train” my eyes to “focus’ on HIM! I have to take my car in (prayers appreciated) to get looked at.
Welcome to those new and returning She’s. Lifting all in prayer.
I’m missing the first week lessons in my book. I contacted the office. Hopefully they will see it. Anyone else have a problem?
Lynn, my book is ok.
Yes. My book is missing the first two days and the pages are a bit mis numbered in mine.
I’m so sorry this happened Rosella! Please reach out to our community engagement team at [email protected] for further help!
Same here! Missing the whole first week in my book and it’s printed out of order.
I’m so sorry your book arrived in less than pristine condition Nora. Please reach out to our community engagement team at [email protected] for further help!
Please reach out to our community engagement team at [email protected] for further help!
Prayers sent for you and your family…
Amanda’s statement, “our central call is to stay focused on Jesus as He empowers us, through the gift of His Spirit, to do what we’ve been called to do.” says it all.
Yes..it certainly does!! I need to print that and put it somewhere! It would be my “sentence” for the year. I like actually that the difference her in this sentence adds “through …the Holy Spirit!” We cannot try to guide ourselves, lead ourselves, pray ourselves!! Let us let the Spirit overflow in us!
Same, I ended up just looking up the reading on here and reading from my Bible. I thought I was half asleep when I noticed the pages missing LOL
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It certainly does.
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I’m grateful to know I’m not alone in my pursuit of “earnest faith in Jesus”. Thank you for being part of my community as we read Acts together!!
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Looking forward to this study and learning more of the early church and what we as believers are called to do and how to live that out. I really like the quote from NT Wright….we can all be called unlikely ambassadors, but it rings true. Lord, teach our hearts as we study your Word.
Thank you all for your prayers yesterday for our travels. Our first 2.5 hours of driving were not great, but the rest of the drive was fine. Unfortunately, we received a call from family part way home and my elderly inlaws had a significant carbon monoxide poisoning in their home. They are both conscious, but unsure at this time the extent of damage that may have occurred. Please pray for them, for healing, for God’s will to be done and for my husband and his brothers as they navigate whats next. Thank you
Oh Wendy- that is awful, prayer for this situation.
Prayers sent for you and your family…
Oh, Wendy, praying for best case scenario for them aka complete recovery and for their boys/decisions! Many many years ago that hapoened to my sister and family. We ‘just happened’ to show up in time to get them all awake and out of the house. So scary!
Praying Wendy. I am so sorry. That happened to a young family in our neighborhood, and after that someone shared the issue and alerted the whole community to get the Carbon monoxide alarm on all levels of living places, especially in winter when windows are closed shut and air is not circulated well.
Oh my goodness, Wendy. Praying!
Praying, Wendy, for full recovery, and for wisdom in any decisions needed.
I am so thankful that the early believers wrote of their experiences – giving us the written word of God, and that God preserved it and passed it down through the ages until it reached us! He continues to preserve and it continues to be passed down, because God’s word never fails!
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I know that as believers our main calling is to be like Jesus and to spread the gospel. What I struggle with is other “callings”. I really thought that along with being a pastor’s wife, He called me to be a postpartum doula. I trained, put out a bit of money to start my business, yet I am not finding clients. Now I question if this was my calling or not. It’s very discouraging..prayers for wisdom and God’s direction.
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Welcome to all the new She’s! Looking forward to this study in Acts with all my dear SRT sisters! ❤️
Praying for you in this questioning time, Sharon! ❤
It is so hard doing something independent such as this..but in God’s timing! Praying for “connections” to get going!
Praying, Sharon, for guidance in your business and building connections. Would there be needs for your services on a volunteer basis through a local pregnancy center or similar?
So glad to be here with all of you!
Big welcome to all the first timers! ❤
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It’s so amazing how the same Scriptures we have read multiple times can seem brand new when we read them in a different context/setting/different stage of faith.
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The passage that stood out to me today, however, was the Great Commission. Please bear with me as I found some great notes I’d like to share. First, back to Acts. It’s so cool that in the advent study, we saw Jesus come down from Heaven and in Acts we get to see Him return to Heaven! Great timing, SRT!!! ❤
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Notes from Warren Wiersbe NKJV Study Bible:
Matthew 28:16-20-
“Jesus based His commissioning of the disciples on His authority. In verse 18, the word “authority” indicates the right to use power. The entire Gospel of Matthew stresses the authority of Jesus Christ. His teaching had authority (7:29). He exercised authority in healing (8:1–13), and even in forgiving sins (9:6). He had authority over Satan, and He delegated that authority to His apostles (10:1). At the close of his gospel, Matthew made it clear that Jesus has been given all authority. Because of this, we may obey Him without fear. No matter where He leads us, no matter what circumstances we face, He is in control. By His death and resurrection, Jesus defeated all enemies and won for Himself all authority.
In verses 19 through 20a, Jesus by His authority orders activity. The Greek verb translated ‘go’ is actually not a command but a present participle (‘going’). The only command in the entire Great Commission is “make disciples.” Jesus was saying, ‘While you are going, make disciples of all the nations.’
No matter where we are, we should be witnesses for Jesus Christ and seek to win others to Him (Acts 11:19–21). The term ‘disciples’ was the most popular name for the early believers. Being a disciple meant more than being a convert or a church member. ‘Apprentice’ might be an equivalent term. A disciple would attach himself to a teacher, identify with him, learn from him, and live with him. A disciple would not learn by simply listening but also by doing.
In verse 20b we see Jesus’ authority as ability. Jesus is not only “among them” when His people gather together (18:20), but He is also present with them as they scatter into the world to witness. Had He remained on earth, Jesus could not have fulfilled this promise. When the Spirit came, Jesus could be with His people no matter where they were.
28:20 The phrase ‘the end of the age’ indicates that our Lord has a plan; He is the Lord of history. As the churches follow His leading and obey His Word, they fulfill His purposes in the world. One day everything will all come to a climax; meanwhile, we must all be faithful.”
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And from John MacArthur Study Bible-
Matthew 28:18- All authority. See 11:27; John 3:35. Absolute sovereign authority—lordship over all—is handed to Christ, ‘in heaven and on earth.’ This is clear proof of His deity. The time of His humiliation was at an end, and God had exalted Him above all (Phil. 2:9–11).
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Matthew 28:19-therefore. I.e., on the basis of His authority, the disciples were sent to “make disciples of all nations.” The sweeping scope of their commission is consummate with His unlimited authority. in the name of the Father . . . Son and . . . Holy Spirit. The formula is a strong affirmation of trinitarianism.
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Matthew 28:29- teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you. The kind of evangelism called for in this commission does not end with the conversion of the unbeliever. I am with you. There’s a touching echo of the beginning of Matthew’s gospel here. Immanuel (1:23) ‘which is translated, ‘God with us’ ‘ — remains ‘with’ us ‘even to the end of the age’ — i.e., until He returns bodily to judge the world and establish His earthly kingdom.”
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Biblegateway verse of the day from Isaiah even has a New Testament ‘ring’ today!
Isaiah 1:16-17 (NLT)
“Wash yourselves and be clean! Get your sins out of my sight. Give up your evil ways. Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.”
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Thank You, Jesus for coming to earth, making avway for us, and giving your lifeblood for us! Father, thank You for the Holy Spirit!
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SONG SHARE
Holy Spirit You Are Welcome Here by Jesus Culture
LYRICS:
There’s nothing worth more
That will ever come close
Nothing can compare
You’re our living hope
Your Presence Lord
I’ve tasted and seen
Of the sweetest of Loves
Where my heart becomes free
And my shame is undone
In Your Presence Lord
Holy Spirit You are welcome here
Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere
Your Glory God is what our hearts long for
To be overcome by Your Presence Lord
Let us become more aware of Your Presence
Let us experience the Glory of Your Goodness
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Love, hugs, and prayers! ❤
I appreciate this! Keep going!
Thanks so much for that encouragement, Jessica!!! That makes my day!
By His grace I will! ❤
This is SO good Cee Gee!!Thank you for the deeper dive!! I think it’s good for even my Jail Butterflies!! They are where others can’t go…and can still share the gospel!! I am seeing it so much! I haven’t shared with ya’ll but you remember Stacey–one of our close ones that we baptized at our church. She is back in jail (but a different one) I was so disappointed at first- but she has been happy that Jesus went back after her after straying and getting lost again…brought her back to Him and to be in a place and on fire for him!! She is doing prayer circles, reading scripture to them, praying with them!! All things she began doing last time…but with the Holy Spirit this time…she is being used in a most uncommon way!! To reach those that need him in Jail! We HAVE to tap into the Holy Spirit like we see with Peter and Paul to overflow in His power.
Oh, no, for Stacey, but PTL she is allowing God to use her experience to help others! Thanks for sharing, Rhonda! Praying! ❤
Amen, converts are just entry level, He calls us to be all in, sold out, 100%. Thank you for the deep dives into these points, and this “Wash yourselves and be clean! Get your sins out of my sight. Give up your evil ways. Learn to do good” -so good! and amen!
Oh Yes! THAT is good…some would see it as harsh..but when you love God you he is good and keeps boundaries for our own good!
❤ Agree! ❤
Amen, Mercy! ❤
Thank you, SHE’s this is going to be a great study! Connecting God’s word together to see a fuller picture, to find deep truths that will lead to deeper trust.
Thank you for the additional foundation background – the power, authority, ability of Jesus. Worthy of it all.
❤ Amen, Searching! SOVEREIGN over all and WORTHY of it all!
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I love the book of Acts! A great reminder of how God uses ordinary people to accomplish his extraordinary work through the power of the Holy Spirit. I live “eyes on Jesus!”
Praying for all and welcome to our new friends
Lord as with these early believers would your Spirit shine in us as the light and beacon so many need that they too come to an understanding of who you are, what your Son has done on our behalf and that your love is a gift to receive.
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I love that we’re studying Acts because it’s one of the books I’ve never really dug into before. It helps me see how the church actually began and how it set a blueprint for how we show the world who we are as Christians today—that it is not just what we say about God’s kingdom, but by how the early church, and we today, live, suffer (in many cases), and love like Jesus. Looking forward to this study.
GM…Lots of comments early on this first day of a new study! Welcome to all the new She’s! The book of Acts is such a great study for the New Year and 2026! What a time we are in, and we will either shrink back or go full forward like these early disciples! We can only do this with the Power of the Holy Spirit!! The things we never thought we could do from fear, lack of ability, nervousness, self-doubt…and on and on!! BUT GOD! Sent the Holy Spirit, which still floors me every time that I make my way through a teaching at jail, pray for a stranger, get zealous at homeless, lead a small group, and even await at the alter not knowing what heartache or request might me!! ME!!
All by the power of the ONE who lives in me! I, and us, all have this if we have asked Jesus into our hearts, but do we ALLOW room for the Holy Spirit or do we keep our flesh in the forefront. We cannot be ambassadors for the Lord on our own, well we can, but the fruits will not be there.
When we LOVE Jesus, and know where we were without him, we have a desire, an earnest priority…a LOVE to share Jesus to the broken, downtrodden, and lost! It breaks our heart that they are separated from his love and salvation. And it sets us ablaze for this command to go to the ends of the earth! It gives us eyes to see, and ears to hear the scriptures in new light as well! God is good, but he wants his followers to seek Him to know him, it is an ongoing journey ————the BEST journey!!! Praise the Lord!! Amen!
Amen! ❤
Loved this part of the devotion
Pastor and theologian N. T. Wright notes that the book of Acts shows us how “the method of the kingdom will match the message of the kingdom.” The gospel is the good news of Jesus for the sinner, the suffering, the vulnerable, the misunderstood, and the overconfident. And the gospel is spread by these same unlikely ambassadors—not by their might or power but by the Holy Spirit living in and among them.
Yes, that is good! WE all can be used by God with the Holy Spirit- Are we willing..?
Amen!
Amennn this is good
Oh, sweet timing. Yesterday, our sermon was on one of the Psalms of Ascent, specifically 131. Today, I’m reading about THE Ascension.
Thank you, Shes, for always being here and for your insights. I don’t comment often, but I do enjoy reading what you all have to say. Happy New Year! Let’s keep reading!
Jesus actually went to heaven before they took his life? I questioned it because I’m not sure if that’s what actually happened but I do know he went to heaven. I hope everyone who did advent will join us today for this study.
Caroline, the ascension took place 40 days after Jesus resurrection. Hope that helps clear up your questions. ❤️
I realized that because Jesus went to Heaven and left the disciples, they were given the Holy Spirit and that enabled a lot more people to experience Jesus, who was limited to an area of land and time as Jesus came as a man and had limited time. Humans can only do so much to speak about God, but with the Holy Spirit, the Gospel could move quickly and powerfully.
Amen
I did these studies a couple years ago and quit but I am back and ready to build my faith with you all!!
Welcome back, Jaci! ❤
❤️ looking forward to this study and taking the time to be in His Word. Thank you Lord for this community of believers.
I am excited to dive into the book of Acts. This is my first SRT study.
Welcome!
Lord God, Guide us by your Holy Spirit. Train our eyes to focus on You as we carry out the work You’ve called us to do.
I shared this before but because I love, love this truth from author, JD Walt.
“The ascension of Jesus mysteriously means two different things all at the same time: he is high and lifted up. He is nearer than our breath. This makes prayer in the name of Jesus far more than the expression of human longing. Jesus raises prayer to the level of participation unfolding the will of God -on earth as it is in heaven.
The ascension of Jesus Christ makes Christian prayer possible….
To pray as a Christian means immediacy of access to Jesus,who is right here, right now.”
Excited for this new study.
Such a reminder that it is His plan and will happen on His time!
My small group did the Advent study on our own. We excited to join the community to begin Acts! Cheers and blessings!
I have a friend who consistently uses the phrase, “eyes on Jesus” – I’m praying that that can be my focus in 2026. Eyes on Jesus!
I love this
Thank you for sharing this! Praying that Eyes on Jesus will be my focus as well this year!
Indeed, our motto the other day was to “superglue our eyes on Jesus”
Praying 2026 is a year of boldness for women of faith!
Feeling excited to start 2026 studying the book of Acts! ❤️
What a mix of confidence and uncertainty in this comparatively small group of disciples! After walking daily with Jesus and being involved in ministry with Him, He has now physically left them. Jesus trained them, taught by example and gave them big picture guidance, and now trusted their faithfulness, ability and determination to follow through. But what could they have been thinking as they were waiting for the Helper, the Holy Spirit? Looking around at each other, wondering about that first step of obedience?
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I read this and think back to the first day of a new job many years ago, walking into an unknown group of workers, surrounded by disorganization. And my job was to organize, straighten out and lead this somewhat motley group of enthusiastic but mostly untrained staff. Did I mention I had no supervisory experience … yet? A lot of praying for and leaning on the Lord’s guidance in those days about the first step and those that followed.
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I have read Acts many times, in pieces and as whole – yet it feels new to me today. Excited to walk through it with my sisters here ❤️ We are so blessed to have God’s word at our fingertips!
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CARLA – praying for Ryan and Kristy, that they will be guided to refocus on Jesus and learn to say NO to the distractions and temptations.
Great analogy, Searching, and yes, we are so bkessed! ❤
I don’t know what you do but that company must have been tremendously blessed to have you, as you have blessed us tremendously. Thank you for being so caring, organizing, and always so giving ❤️.
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Awe, yes indeed!
Love the reminder that the early church planters were sinners saved by Grace, and that they were spreading the gospel as unlikely ambassador’s led by the spirit living in them!!!
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Good morning SRT friends! I am so thankful to begin this study of Acts with you all in this new year. Staying focused on Jesus during these days is essential to us all and I’m praying that we will.
A young couple in my church is not staying focused on Jesus and their marriage is a mess and in danger of collapse. They have 2 elementary age boys. Could I please ask you to pray for Ryan and Kristy? I thank you in advance.
Praying for Ryan and Kristy, may God do a miracle in their marriage. ❤️
Praying for Ryan and Kristy and their family.
Praying over Ryan and Kristy and their two kids.
Looking forward to meditation on His word in the book of Acts.
I am so excited to deep dive into ACTS! My young adult group at my church did ACTS a few months ago! But I have already learned new things!
This is my first SRT study!
I am looking forward to starting my day with reading scripture and connecting with yall!
My first SRT was Advent and I loved it so I’m new too. Looking forward to this one
Welcome Britney!
Amen
While Luke’s account of the “acts” of the apostles had to end, the reality is that God continues to work through His Church through today! It is a never-ending story.
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One of my “when I get to heaven” questions is to hear how Jesus’ brothers came to faith (Acts 1:14).
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One room of a home large enough to hold 120 people? Who’s home? Surely it was someone wealthy…
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Welcome to all first-timers!
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TRACI GENDRON – how is your grand-nephew doing?
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A WALTON – did your mom’s blood clot dissolve?
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THERESE – any updates on Joanne’s recovery?
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DONNA WOLCOTT – continuing to pray for Matt’s recovery and healing
Amen! “ the reality is that God continues to work through His Church through today! It is a never-ending story.” ❤️
Agreed, Kelly, on the question! I am embarking on a study of James today and that is truly a mystery to which we have no answer, but we do know that Jesus’ ‘brothers’ were there in that room with His mother. What a teaser verse! ☺ ❤
I laughed at the 120 people part…it says they were in one room- it doesn’t say they were comfortable ;) But for real, if you have a chance/desire, google images of the terraced houses in Ephesus. We got to see them last Spring and they are magnificent. The terraced houses are where the wealthy of Ephesus lived, and I’m sure there were similarly grand homes in every major city, including Jerusalem. I couldn’t believe the size and grandeur of them! The website “Ephesian Tourism & DMC” has great photos.
Thank you for asking Kelly. He was doing well, but ended up with an infection. They are talking with the surgeon today. I’m praying they will not need to redo the surgery.
Thank you Kelly. Matt was cleared the end of Nov. by his trauma, thoracic and ortho teams. The ribs are still displaced but will continue to heal in their unusual positions. December he was ready to start working again and decided to start his own consulting business focusing on fundraising for Christian schools and organizations. This is a big leap of faith, but he feels God led. Thank you so much for continuing to remember him in your prayers.
Thank you for asking. Joann is still 4 hours away in a rehab facility still having issues with the hospital delirium and UTI’s. She may be leaving this week to a place back home for more rehab. She is making some progress and they think she will gain some function back if she can get over these issues. Still no long term plan on where she will live. Things to pray for please. Also thinking about sharing her address here or on FB page if people would be interested in sending her a card.
Thankful she is making some progress, praying for much, much more. Hopefully family can keep a closer eye on her care when she’s not so far from home. You really have to be a care watchdog no matter which rehab facility. The rehab is typically good and floor care lagging (overworked & under staffed) from the dealings I’ve had with various facilities.
Agree on the watchdog for sure. Thank you for the prayers. She knows we are praying for her, and I hope when she gets back, she will let us visit.
Amen❤️
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”It is the true story of where we came from and where we are going.” These true and beautiful words bring so much hope this morning. Thankful for this new study.
Our new study excites me. I have so much to learn and so much to unlearn on the topic of the Holy Spirit.
“Like Peter, our central call is to stay focused on Jesus as He empowers us, through the gift of His Spirit, to do what we’ve been called to do.” I pray that as my day goes on I am able to keep my focus on Jesus.
Love that Peter also goes through doubts and fears. Just like us.
Wow this is my first SRT study I’m very impressed. I’m really learning alot
Same! Glad to be here. Glad you are too.
And welcome to you too, Bernadette!
Welcome Julia!
This is my first too! Just got my book today.
Amen
The gospel is the good news of Jesus for the sinner, the suffering, the vulnerable, the misunderstood, and the overconfident. And the gospel is spread by these same unlikely ambassadors—not by their might or power but by the Holy Spirit living in and among them.
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I love this Amanda Bible Williams! ❤️
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First part describes me to a ‘T’, although not sure about the overconfident bit, the second part brings me the hope that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens, empowers, guides, directs, and fills me with strength through the Holy Spirit within me..
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Win – Win.
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BUT GOD..
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AMEN.
Looking forward to travelling this road with you my dears..
Happy Monday covered in love, hugs and prayers, requested or felt to..❤️❤️
Amen, Tina – such a good reminder that each and everyone of us, not matter the ‘label’ needs the hope of the gospel!
Looking forward to this new study! SRT never disappoints.
yes!!!!!
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I’m so excited to start 2026 in Acts!