By Andrew Williams
“And when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James.” – Acts 1:13 (ESV)
Good morning fellow disciples.
Acts 1:13 marks the last specific mention of Matthew in the Bible. He is found with the other apostles in the upper room in Jerusalem, after Jesus’ ascension, waiting for the fulfilment of the promise of the Holy Spirit. This gathering emphasizes the importance of community and shared expectation in the life of the early believers. Despite not knowing exactly what was to come, Matthew and the others remained united in prayer and anticipation. His consistent presence and anticipation remind us to live our life in this way.
As a disciple, you may find yourself in seasons of waiting, unsure of what the future holds. You may be waiting for a breakthrough, a direction, or a fulfilment of God’s promises. Matthew’s example reminds you that it’s in these times of waiting that you can draw strength and encouragement from the community of believers. You are empowered to remain faithful, to pray with expectancy, and to trust that God will fulfill His promises in His perfect timing.
This week, embrace any season of waiting that you may be experiencing. Connect with other believers, engage in prayer, and trust that God is working behind the scenes, even when you cannot see it. Remember that your faithfulness in the waiting is just as important as your activity in the serving.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to embrace the seasons of waiting in my life and to trust that you are working behind the scenes, even when I cannot see it. Lead me to connect with other believers, to engage in prayer, and to remain faithful in your calling. Strengthen my hope to walk in your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
