May 18, 2026 | The Movement - A Study in Acts by Byron McWilliams
Day 1: The God of Glory Calls
Reading: Genesis 12:1-9
Devotional: God called Abraham to leave everything familiar and follow Him into the unknown. This was not just a geographical journey, but a journey of faith that would impact all nations. God's call on Abraham's life reminds us that He is sovereign and has a plan for each of us. When God calls you, He doesn't just ask you to abandon the old—He promises to be with you in the new. The "God of glory" who appeared to Abraham is the same God who calls you today. Are you willing to leave your comfort zone and follow where He leads? God's promises are sure, and His presence makes any place holy ground. Consider what God might be calling you to leave behind so you can fully embrace His purpose for your life.
Day 2: God's Chosen Deliverers
Reading: Exodus 3:1-15
Devotional: Moses encountered God in a burning bush—a moment that changed everything. God saw the affliction of His people and chose Moses as His deliverer. Like Moses, we may feel inadequate or unqualified, but God equips those He calls. Notice that God didn't call Moses because of his eloquence or strength, but because of God's own faithfulness to His promises. The ground became holy not because of the bush, but because of God's presence. Today, God dwells within believers through the Holy Spirit, making you a temple of His presence. You carry holy ground wherever you go. When God calls you to stand for Him, remember that His presence goes with you. What excuses are you making that God wants to overcome with His power?
Day 3: Rejected Yet Faithful
Reading: Acts 7:51-60
Devotional: Stephen stood before the religious leaders who rejected Jesus, and he didn't back down. He boldly proclaimed truth even when it cost him everything. The pattern throughout Scripture is clear: God's messengers are often rejected by those who should receive them most readily. Joseph was rejected by his brothers, Moses was rejected by Israel, the prophets were persecuted, and ultimately Jesus was betrayed and murdered. Yet God's plan prevailed through every rejection. Stephen understood that being faithful to Christ matters more than preserving our comfort or even our lives. His courage came from knowing that death was not the end—resurrection awaited. Are you more concerned with people's approval or God's approval? When faced with opposition, will you compromise or stand firm?
Day 4: Evidence of Faith
Reading: James 2:14-26
Devotional: Stephen's life provided overwhelming evidence that he was a follower of Jesus Christ. His faith was not merely intellectual agreement but lived-out devotion. James reminds us that genuine faith produces visible fruit. If you were put on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? Consider your daily life—your words, actions, priorities, and relationships. Does your Monday look different because of your Sunday worship? Faith that doesn't transform how we live is not saving faith. Stephen's boldness flowed from a genuine relationship with Christ that shaped everything about him. Examine your life today: What evidence would others find of your faith? Are you living as an undercover Christian or as a bold witness? God is not looking for secret agents but courageous ambassadors.
Day 5: The Covenant Community
Reading: Romans 6:1-14
Devotional: Circumcision was the covenant sign for Abraham's descendants, marking them as God's people. Today, baptism identifies believers with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. It's a public declaration that you belong to Jesus. Baptism doesn't save you, but it testifies to the world that you have entered into covenant relationship with God through Christ. Have you been baptized since believing in Jesus? If not, what are you waiting for? Baptism is an act of obedience and identification with Christ. It says to the watching world: "I am not ashamed of Jesus. He is my Lord and Savior." The covenant community of believers is marked by those who openly confess Christ. Don't remain silent about your faith. Step forward and publicly identify with Jesus, joining the community of believers who boldly proclaim His name.
Closing Challenge: Like Stephen, may we live with such bold faith that our lives become undeniable testimonies to the power and presence of Jesus Christ. Don't reject Him—receive Him and stand for Him no matter the cost.