They took God's Word seriously. "They spent their time learning the apostles' teaching" (Acts 2:42 NCV). Researchers tell us that today personal Bible reading is less common among Christians than prayer. Instead of a Word from God that fortifies us for the challenges of the day, we've substituted exercise and cappuccino. Our Bible reading is confined to the pastor's Sunday sermon. The early disciples were so committed to the Word that they "spent[invested, paid the price with] their time, learning [studying to understand and master] the apostles' teaching." God's Word not only enabled them to withstand life's challenges, but when persecution made them fugitives they took the Word with them and planted new churches around the world (Acts 8:4). Are you growing in God's Word so that it fortifies you against tough times and prepares you to influence your world for Christ?
They took worship and praise seriously. "They stayed continually at the temple, praising God" (Luke 24:53 NIV). For many of us the word "worship" has come to designate the Sunday morning service-a place we attend rather than the voluntary act of devoted hearts glorifying God. Being a spectator at the Sunday service isn't worship. The New Testament believers understood David's instruction: "Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise" (Psalm 100:4 NIV). Do you want to be a serious worshipper? Enter His presence focused exclusively on His goodness, and wholeheartedly express to Him your appreciation for all He is.
