Acts 16:11-15 – Open the Eyes of My Heart

Read Acts 16:11-15

Have you noticed the point of view shift? Up to now, we’ve seen the pronoun, “they”, and now it’s “we.” The text doesn’t say what happened here, but apparently Luke, the author of Acts, is now accompanying the missionary team. It actually happened at the end of our previous reading. Apparently, Troas is the seaport where they all met up. We now have an eye-witness account to Paul’s second missionary journey.

We meet Lydia. I’ve always liked Lydia because I’m a fan of purple. She was bold in her faith and showed her hospitality, two more traits that really resonate with me. The reference to, “the Lord opened her heart” is a bit curious. We understand she already worshipped God. Her faith needed to blossom to accept Jesus as her Lord and Savior. With a little help from the Spirit, that is exactly what happened.

I learned in some side research there was no synagogue in Philippi when the team arrived. There is a requirement to have ten Jewish men to organize and start a Jewish synagogue. Accordingly, you know there had to be only a handful of Jews there, and it seems this riverbank prayer gathering was the extent of their “church.” Lydia was the first of many converts to Christianity in this town, also known as “little Rome” because of the Roman influence present.

Let’s listen to the praise song, “Open the Eyes of My Heart” It’s a beautiful song that should be our prayer or “prayer prep” each time we go to the Lord. For as Lydia’s heart was opened, our hearts can be opened, too. We shouldn’t be afraid to ask. This song focuses on the holiness of God and our hunger for him. We should be asking for the right frame of mind as we enter his presence, and an open heart so we can welcome his truth.

Are you giving God enough of you? Or, does he just get the leftovers? I’ve been guilty of the leftover part for much of my life. I have finally taken a stand for what I believe is the top priority – building a strong relationship with God. I feel better, I think better, and I do better when I have spent time with God first.

Take time today to reassess what your quiet time looks like. Don’t let it just be another item on your to-do list, however, do put it at the top! Your time with God should be non-negotiable. If you ask for a changed or open heart, be prepared when God grants your every request.

Let’s pray. Lord thank you for opening my heart and softening some of my rough edges. I look forward to each new transformation you make in my life. May I continue to open my heart to you and your leading so there is no question in what direction I must go. As the apostles sensed your spirit’s leading and encounters took place, provide similar opportunities for me. May I always honor you and may my life be living praise to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.