When the disciples spoke in different languages about the wonderful works of God, people from different parts of the world marveled and accused the disciples of being drunk, although it was only nine in the morning. Peter got up and explained to the people that all these things happened because of what prophet Joel spoke several hundred years ago that the Spirit of God would come upon men and people would prophesy (Joel 2:28-32). Then Peter continued to explain, "People of Israel, listen! God publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. But God knew what would happen, and his prearranged plan was carried out when Jesus was betrayed. With the help of lawless Gentiles (Romans), you nailed him to a cross and killed him. But God released him from the horrors of death and raised him back to life, for death could not keep him in its grip." (Acts 2:22-24). Then Peter encouraged the people to repent of their sins, turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of their sins. Three thousand people believed in Jesus on that day. (Acts 2:32-41).
Everything that happened in the Lord Jesus Christ was part of God's plan to save us. The betrayal of Judas, the crucifixion, the death, and the resurrection of our Lord Jesus were all known by God even before the creation of the world. God could have changed His plan to suffer and die for our sins, but He did not change His mind because He loves us so much. God knew that there was only one solution to our sins: His death and resurrection. Now that He ascended back to Heaven, He is sitting at God's right hand and sent the Holy Spirit to come upon us to help and give us the power to fulfill His purpose in this world.
Let us be encouraged today that our God loves us. He did everything, including sacrificing His own life to save us. Jesus came to save us and restore our relationship with our Heavenly Father. When we feel alone, abandoned, and unloved, we must remind ourselves that God loves us to the fullest. God is not against us, but He is for us.
Ask yourself these questions for application: (Think through carefully and meditate on the questions while answering these questions, and let the Spirit of God speaks to you) How did God show His love to me? What should I remind myself of when I feel alone, abandoned, and unloved? Do I believe that God loves me?
Write down all the worries you face today and lift them up to God.
Prayer:
Father in Heaven, thank you for sacrificially loving me. Although You knew beforehand that Jesus would be betrayed and crucified, You did not change your mind because you love me. Please help and teach me to live in your love. In Your name Jesus, I pray. Amen.