lydia, the gifted lady
Lydia “reverenced God, and the Lord opened her heart to accept what Paul was saying.” —Acts 16:14
Lydia is a significant person in the New Testament. She was “a dealer in purple goods” (Acts 16:14), considered a luxury in the ancient world. Thus, she was both a woman of financial means and able to deal successfully with the influential. She also had a great gift of persuasion. She might be the only person in the New Testament who got the upper hand in dealing with St. Paul, when she prevailed on St. Paul to come to her home (Acts 16:15).
Lydia worshipped God and her heart was open to the preaching of the apostles (Acts 16:14). Additionally, she had the spiritual gift of being an “assistant” to Paul (1 Cor 12:28). Lydia also had the spiritual gift of leadership (Rm 12:8), as the “home church” in Philippi presumably met in her house (see Acts 16:40). Paul and Silas were thrown out of town after a very short stay in Philippi, perhaps no more than a few weeks or months. Yet the foundation started by the apostles flourished in the church which met at Lydia’s home. The foundation offered by Lydia’s firm faith and stable home led to the perseverance of the Philippian community. The letter to the Philippians is a testament to the importance of the church which met in Lydia’s home.
One person with a heart open to the Holy Spirit can make a lasting impact for the kingdom of God. Be a Lydia. Use everything in your life for the service of the Lord.
Prayer: Father, use me for Your Kingdom and use me up.
Promise: The Holy Spirit “will bear witness on My behalf. You must bear witness as well.” —Jn 15:26-27
Praise: Warren learned how to create Internet websites so he could reach people with the Gospel. His labor of love now reaches many thousands monthly with the Word of God.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
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