The Daily Fountain Devotional of the Church Of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) 25 May 2026 – Guided By God’s Hand
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TOPIC – Guided By God’s Hand
READ: Acts 1:9-26 (KJV)
9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.
10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
12 Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day’s journey.
13 And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James.
14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.
15 And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)
16 Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.
17 For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.
18 Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out.
19 And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood.
20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.
21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,
22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.
23 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.
24 And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,
25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.
26 And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
THE MESSAGE:
The account in our text today describes the events following Jesus’ ascension, a period of transition and uncertainty for the disciples. After witnessing Jesus ascend into heaven, the disciples were instructed to await the promised Holy Spirit, a time of preparation for the challenging mission ahead. Judas Iscariot’s betrayal created a void within the group, necessitating the selection of a new apostle. Through prayer and casting of lots, Matthias was chosen, highlighting the importance of seeking God’s guidance in crucial decisions. In this, we see the early Church’s reliance on God’s leading as they prepared for their mission. The disciples’ decision to replace Judas with Matthias through prayer and casting lots, demonstrates their trust in God’s sovereignty and His ability to guide their decisions.
This passage reminds us that the Church must always seek God’s leading in its mission and decisions. Just as the early disciples relied on prayer and God’s guidance, we, too, must prioritise seeking His will in our Church activities. By doing so, we ensure that our actions align with His purposes and that we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfil our calling. Trusting in God’s leading brings unity and clarity, enabling the Church to effectively carry out its mission in the world.
PRAYER: Lord, help me to patiently await Your guidance and help me to seek Your wisdom in all my decisions. Amen.
