Friday, April 25, 2025

New Testament Reading Plan: Acts 5

Have you ever felt lost, stuck, or spiritually lifeless? Ephesians 2 gives words to that reality. We were dead in our sin, cut off from God, completely unable to save ourselves. But then came two life-changing words: But God.

Ephesians 2:4 
But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much.

In his mercy and love, God stepped in when we had nothing to offer. He could have turned away and left us in our sin and brokenness. But instead, Jesus chose you and me! He gave himself for us.

Why would he do this? Ephesians 2:7 answers: so that in all future generations, God could point to us - his people - as proof of his grace, kindness, and love. You and I are walking displays of God's mercy.

That's what Easter is all about.

Are there any places in your life where you need to be open-handed and release the weight of what you're carrying by saying, “But God”?

Questions:
What does “But God” mean in your own story?

How does knowing you are a living display of God's grace and kindness change how you see yourself and others?

Next Steps:
Take five quiet minutes today to name a place you feel stuck, weighed down, or spiritually dry, and then release it to God in prayer. Say it aloud or write it down, followed by the words: "But God, I trust you with this."

Prayer:
God, thank you for not leaving me in my brokenness. When I had nothing to give, you gave everything. You saw me in my sin and still chose to love me. Help me to release _________ and trust you with open hands. Remind me daily that I reflect your grace and am a living example of your kindness and love. In Jesus' name, amen.

Theme Verse:

Ephesians 1:7
He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins.

This post was written by Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content for the LivingItOut Devotional.