In all this I have given you an example
that by such work we must support the
weak, remembering the words of the Lord
Jesus, for he himself said, “It is more
blessed to give than to receive.”
Acts 20:35

Acts 20:13-38

Click HERE to read today's scripture or use your Bible.

How do you want to be remembered? What sort of legacy do you want to leave?

In today’s reading, Paul says farewell to the elders of the Ephesian church.

Central to his farewell is the way Paul reminds them how he proclaimed the gospel not only with his lips but in the way he lived his life.

Paul’s farewell reminds the elders, and us, how important it is for followers of Jesus, especially leaders, to live with integrity.

Nothing destroys the credibility of Christians faster than saying how important the teachings of Jesus are and then living in such a way as to renounce them.

Each of us is called to live with integrity and bring all of our life under the lordship of Christ.

Is there some part of your life that is out of sync with what you say you believe? What would it look like for you to integrate that part of your life with your faith?

Today, ask God to help you integrate your faith into every aspect of your life. Not as a way to earn God’s approval but so that you can live a life of complete integrity, proclaiming the gospel not only through your words but also through you life.

Almighty God, Father of all mercies, we your unworthy servants give you humble thanks for all your goodness and loving-kindness to us and to all whom you have made. We bless you for our creation, preservation, and all the blessings of this life; but above all for your immeasurable love in the redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ; for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory. And, we pray, give us such an awareness of your mercies, that with truly thankful hearts we may show forth your praise, not only with our lips, but in our lives, by giving up ourselves to your service, and by walking before you in holiness and righteousness all our days; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory throughout all ages. Amen.