Lydia, Beyond the River



PART THREE – LYDIA

This week’s Scripture: Acts 16: 6-40 (Read on Biblegateway)

Lydia's excitement about her new faith, and her new life, causes an overwhelming desire to share what she knows with others. She opens her house to help Paul and Silas in their ministry.

When Paul and Silas are in jail, Lydia visits them and takes care of their needs. Later when Paul and Silas are released from prison “they went to Lydia’s house, where they met with the brothers and encouraged them. Then they left.” (Acts 16:40) We can see Paul, Silas, and Timothy praying and sharing their message with all who wanted to hear.

Through Lydia’s efforts the gospel reached into all parts of society. I don’t think Lydia missed an opportunity to share her faith. I imagine that she not only practiced hospitality when she wanted, but also at times when someone just turned up at her doorstep needing shelter, clothing, or food.

Lydia is known as the first European convert. There were no more prayer meetings at the river. Lydia opened her house to the believers in Philippi. The people in Christ met and worshiped Him in her home, the first house opened to Christian outreach and worship in Europe.

We shouldn't miss God at work in Lydia’s story. Paul’s obedience to do what God was asking of Him led him to Philippi where he met Lydia. Paul allowed God to speak through him to Lydia. When God opened Lydia’s heart, things began to happen in a big way.

In my time I have seen the difference in people's lives that can happen when one person, honoring God, tells others the Good News of Jesus. Lydia made a huge difference in other people's lives by being devoted to spreading the Gospel. Her faith had given her new purpose and she moved forward with God.

What I learned through Lydia's story today: It's about using the skills, gifts and influence God has given each of us to further His work in the Kingdom. It's about being open to opportunities to share our faith without hesitation. It’s about letting go and trusting God; allowing Him to work through us.

Scripture comes to mind: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)

Pray [in your own words]: Thank God for the lessons you have learned from Lydia’s life. Ask him to keep you open, loving, and caring for others. Ask Him to give you the desire to be hospitable like Lydia, ready to share your home, time, food, and faith story with others. Thank God for the blessings He has given you.