Glenda Inspires – Uplifting Words for a Purposeful Life

Our world is full of people searching for peace, purpose, and identity in all the wrong places. In Acts 17 , Athens was crowded with altars to every imaginable philosophy and belief system. They even built an altar dedicated to an Unknown God just in case they missed one. When Paul saw this, he didn't mock their confusion. He addressed their hunger saying in Acts 17:24-25 : The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. 25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. God is not playing hide-and-seek with your life. He didn't place you here by accident, and He hasn't left you to navigate this world on your own.  Whatever uncertainties you face this week, rest in the promise that in Him, you live, move, and have your very existence. Reach out to Him in prayer. He is already near. Glenda Coker  Check out th...

In the Book of Acts 15:11 it says, "No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are .” It is easy for human religious systems to start adding extra requirements to simple faith. In Acts 15, well-meaning believers wanted to load new Christians down with heavy rules and regulations before accepting them into the fold. Peter stood up and asked a pointed question in verse 10 that says, “N ow then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of Gentiles a yoke that neither we nor our ancestors have been able to bear? ” The message of Acts 15 is clear: Jesus paid it all, and grace is enough. Are there places in your own life where you are placing heavy, legalistic burdens on yourself or others? Real spiritual maturity doesn't build higher walls to keep people out; it opens wider doors to welcome people in. Stand firm in the freedom of God's grace, and let your life be a light that leads others to His peace. You may listen to...

  Acts 13:2 says, "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.'" Have you ever wondered how to hear the voice of God for your next step? Look at the environment in Acts 13. The leaders in Antioch weren't complaining, worrying, or frantically searching for their next big plan. They were doing two simple things: worshiping the Lord and fasting. It was in the middle of active, faithful service that the Holy Spirit gave them direction. When you make space to quiet the noise and focus on God, His voice becomes clear. And when He calls you to a new assignment, remember that not everyone will celebrate your growth or receive your message, and that’s okay.  Paul and Barnabas faced strong opposition, yet verse 52 says the disciples were “filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” Your joy doesn't depend on how people react to you; it depends on being obedient to th...

  Life doesn't always go according to our plans. We make schedules, organize our calendars, and prepare for what we believe the day will bring. Then suddenly, something changes. A phone call. A delay. A closed door. A change of direction. At first, we often see these moments as interruptions. But what if God sees them as opportunities? Acts Chapter 8 gives us a wonderful example of this truth. After persecution arose against the early church, believers were scattered from Jerusalem. What appeared to be a setback became the very means by which the gospel spread to new cities and new people. Philip faithfully preached in Samaria, where many believed in Jesus Christ. Later, an angel of the Lord directed him to leave a fruitful ministry and travel down a lonely desert road. From a human perspective, it may not have made sense. Yet on that road, Philip met an Ethiopian official who was searching the Scriptures and longing for understanding. Philip explained the good news of What looked ...

  Acts Chapter 5 reminds us that God desires sincerity, integrity, and wholehearted devotion from His people. It is a chapter filled with both sobering warnings and inspiring examples of courage. Through the events recorded here, we see that the message of Jesus cannot be silenced. A Matter of the Heart The chapter begins with the account of Ananias and Sapphira, who chose to deceive the early church about their offering. Their story reminds us that God sees beyond outward appearances and looks at the condition of our hearts. He desires honesty and genuine faith rather than empty displays of devotion. The Gospel Continues to Spread Despite growing opposition, the apostles continued performing signs and wonders among the people. Many came to faith in Jesus Christ as the church continued to grow. The religious leaders, filled with jealousy, had the apostles arrested in an attempt to stop their ministry. But God's plans could not be hindered. Choosing Obedience Over Fear An angel of ...

  Acts Chapter 4 reminds believers that following Jesus Christ will not always be easy. The early disciples faced questioning, threats, and opposition because they boldly shared the gospel. Yet even under pressure, they refused to remain silent about what God had done. Standing Firm in Faith After the healing of the lame man, Peter and John were arrested and brought before religious leaders. They were questioned about the miracle and warned not to speak or teach anymore in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered with courage and conviction. They understood that obeying God was more important than pleasing people. Even though opposition came against them, they refused to stop sharing the truth. Boldness Through the Holy Spirit The disciples did not rely on their own strength. The Holy Spirit gave them wisdom, boldness, and peace during difficult moments. Instead of praying for an easy path, the believers prayed for greater boldness to continue speaking God’s Word faithfully. ...