From Open Up Your Heart by Jeff Syverson (available on Amazon.com)

June 13
There’s Always Hope!

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 132:6-12 | 1 Kings 11:1-12:19 | Acts 9:1-25 | Proverbs 17:4-5

Today’s Scripture Focus: Acts 9:1-25

“Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your people in Jerusalem. And he has come here with the authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.” But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.” (Acts 13-15 TNIV)

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Paul’s conversion is a reminder that there is no one beyond hope. If Saul could become a Christian, then there is every reason for us to hope and pray for the salvation of the most unlikely—the hardest cases.

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Don’t give up on praying for the most unlikely people to come to know Jesus. One real encounter with Jesus can alter a person’s destiny.

Don’t give up believing that God can use you, in spite your past, in spite of your failures. In fact, those struggles and failures might be the very experiences he uses most for his glory.

[Excerpts from Open Up Your Heart by Jeff Syverson–now available on Amazon.com]