May 20, 2026
St. Bernardine of Siena
‘That Gracious Word’
…I commend you to God and to that gracious word of his that can build you up…
Acts 20:32

I never thought I’d see our faith attacked the way it is now, with hate speech and violence against those who dare to speak the truth. But it shouldn’t surprise me. As Jesus says in today’s Gospel, he gave his disciples God’s Word, and the world hated them like it hates him. (See John 17:14.)

Feeling that hatred makes me want to hide that Word, to be quiet in the face of evil. So I’m glad for these words from St. Paul, as he warned of “savage wolves” (v. 29) who would pervert the truth: “I commend you to…that gracious word of [God’s] that can build you up” (v. 32). That same word that some pervert and others attack is our strength!

Lord, help me hold fast to your word of grace and truth. May I never be afraid to share it in the world. And may it strengthen me to follow you.

- Sarah Christmyer

Acts 20:28-38 ✚ Psalm 68:29-30, 33-36 ✚ John 17:11b-19
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Comments

Scott
May 20, 2026 at 10:44 AM

Be thankful always for God's Holy Word lasts forever. I appreciate this devotion Sarah, the Spirit moves us to share the word in the midst of judgement, evil and sin. The Word of God is about non-judgment presence, acceptance, forgiveness, joy, love, kindness, peace and a lot of other values that help me overcome the issues of the world. I am blessed to receive the gifts from the Spirit and called to share the gift of God's word that enables me to be healed, strengthened, understood and reminds me that I receives the gifts of the Spirit and give that...
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Salina (not in control)
May 20, 2026 at 11:13 AM

Yes, Scott, we can share the gift of God’s Word with others but I don’t think I have the power or authority to give the Holy Spirit to others no matter how much I want to…

Salina (not in control)
May 20, 2026 at 10:27 AM

*** Paul warned the Ephesian elders back then as he warns us today to be aware of false doctrines in Acts 20:29-30, “I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them!” *** How do they twist God’s Word? They add a little of excrement to the cookie dough and tell you it is chocolate cookies :-( That pro-life is taking away women health and rights…that God is pro-choice because He gave Mary a choice whether to be pregnant...
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Jamie
May 20, 2026 at 10:39 AM

AMEN!!

CBR
May 20, 2026 at 10:05 AM

Thank u Lord for helping me through this world of yours may you strengthen all of us in Jesus name I pray Amen Amen Amen

ADV
May 20, 2026 at 10:01 AM

AMEN!

Stormi
May 20, 2026 at 09:39 AM

Sarah your words are encouraging to stay steadfast and let our faith strengthen us thank you. The world today is changing so much I pray it finds God is the way, the truth, and the light soon! Blessings to all the LFF, especially those with extra needs these days. Holy Spirit fill the hearts of all to guide us to a more heavenly earth.

Debbie H
May 20, 2026 at 09:10 AM

Amen.

freeter
May 20, 2026 at 09:03 AM

Amen!

Gary
May 20, 2026 at 08:31 AM

"Your word of grace and truth". Amen!

Mike
May 20, 2026 at 08:22 AM

Amen

Cheryl
May 20, 2026 at 08:01 AM

Amen

Lia
May 20, 2026 at 02:06 AM

Amen.

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