Acts 19:25-27

New International Version

He called them together, along with the workers in related trades, and said: “You know, my friends, that we receive a good income from this business. And you see and hear how this fellow Paul has convinced and led astray large numbers of people here in Ephesus and in practically the whole province of Asia. He says that gods made by human hands are no gods at all. There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited; and the goddess herself, who is worshiped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed of her divine majesty.”

Your Encouragement

When our economy is threatened, we fight back like a lion whose cub is under attack.

We see this trend every day. It is not only in the economies of nations and unbelievers, as the case of Demetrius of Ephesus shows (Acts 19:24-27). It is a sore point for all of us Christians.

How do we react when the demand for righteous action comes against the security of our jobs, businesses, opportunities for promotion, or “better” life? When we stand to lose it all for the sake of Christ, how do we respond?

Think about it. The good income from your business, losing a “good name or reputation,” the discrediting of our proposal or entrenched belief, the fading of our fame, a scratch on our ego. How do any of these influence your walk with the Lord, His call on your life, and your witness before people?

Our challenge for the day: When your economy is threatened, where do you place Christ?

Shalom and good morning.