I just had to smile at Peter for taking charge. Somebody had to take the lead, and I don’t know about you, but I guessed it might be Peter. Peter is always portrayed as a little outspoken. Now, he was probably still dealing with his own guilt over the events in the courtyard. But Jesus had given them a job to do, and Peter was going to get the followers in line. We all know the “Peters” in our life. You know, those self starters who take charge. Personally, if left to my own choice, I would not be a Peter type leader. How about you?
I was impressed that he wanted to fulfill Scripture first and choose a replacement for their departed disciple, Judas. Here we see there are a lot of believers gathered together. Peter takes this opportunity for an impromptu election. We don’t know much about the two men they nominated, but we know the prerequisite was they had been with the others from the get go. Obviously not privy to the private wisdom Jesus shared, but a devoted follower just the same.
Did you notice something special that they did before casting their votes?
They prayed. This was a very big decision not to be taken lightly. They didn’t want their own prejudices or opinions get in the way. They wanted God to help them make the right choice. God could see inside the hearts of these men. Not to say that Joseph was bad, but Matthias was the better choice. Their small group was restored to the original number of twelve.
That should be a good example for us to follow. We have decisions to make every day. The big decisions, for sure, should be made only after we counsel with God, waiting for his direction. In addition to prayer, I’ve also heard it is a good idea to read Scripture to make sure your decision in no way goes against Biblical truth and consult with a trust Christian friend for their wisdom. (Sometimes we are blinded and need someone else to speak God’s wisdom to us.)
What is the last big decision you had to make? Maybe you’re facing a big decision right now. How are you feeling about it? Anxious? At peace? Lost?
The last thing Jesus would want you to do is avoid the decision because of your fear. That alone, being afraid, may be the very answer you need to tell you not to go forward just yet with that decision and give it a “no”. One of my favorite Bible verses is Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”
Let’s pray. Father, I thank you for this reminder today. As I face big decisions, and even small ones, I want to be walking in your will. I see your wisdom today and know you will show me the path to take. I look forward to this new journey through Acts and pray for the wisdom to make your words come to life for my readers now and in the future. You know how these passages can help us to see and know you. Use me to help your people. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
