Welcome to our new project, the Daily Bible Devotional. The goal is to help you understand and

apply scripture as you go through a New Testament Bible read five days a week, Monday through

Friday as we move from Matthew straight through to Revelation. In under four minutes each morning, we will recap the chapter,

make some application, present thought questions for the day, and offer a prayer together.

I'm excited about exploring God's word with you, so let's get started.

Thanks for joining today. We are continuing with Paul's saga here near the end of the Book of Acts

Today, chapter 26. Paul defends himself before King Agrippa by recalling his life, his conversion

to Christ, and his mission for God. He begins with his strict upbringing as a Pharisee and his

zealous persecution of Christians.

Paul then describes his dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, where he was

blinded and chosen to become a witness to both Jews and Gentiles. He explains how Jesus

commissioned him to open the eyes of others, converting them from darkness to light and from Satan to God.

Paul's message from Jesus emphasizes the forgiveness of sins for those who repent and turn to God.

Festus interrupts, accusing Paul of madness, but Paul remains composed and appeals to Agrippa's

understanding of the prophets. Agrippa is impressed, but chooses not to respond to the

gospel. Paul's defense starts with a recounting of his past before Christ redirected him. This illustrates

his humility as he acknowledges that he believed he knew what was right, but was mistaken and needed to repent.

We should share aspects of our journey before coming to Christ when possible.

This is a wonderful way to give all glory to the grace of Christ who redirects and redeems us.

Paul further explains that Jesus has given him a mission, which is why he risks his life

and remains tireless in his

teachings. Like Paul, we should be honest and bold about our mission of service to Christ,

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