Acts 10:1-8 Peter and Cornelius

I have asked multiple times, How does God deal with people who are fearful of him, decent with their neighbor, and generous with the needy? These are people who don't have a clear picture of the Gospel, but are devout to God in the little they understand. Cornelius is one of those cases. Here is a Roman centurion, in charge of many men in the Italian Cohort. His devotion was evident in his leading his family, giving alms, and praying. I have a better understanding of the Gospel than Cornelius, but am I more devoted to God than him? I want to be as devout as Cornelius...

God was aware of Cornelius, his life, and his family and pleased with him. The devotion that people display for God in their understanding of him is not in vain. God takes notice and he makes sure to provide for that person the understanding required. In Cornelius' case, God sent an angel to give him instructions to call on Simon, Peter to come and speak to him. There are countless of testimonies of people who have received visions, dreams, and divine appointments with people to explain to them the kingdom of God.

These God fearing people, despite their lack of understanding, have a great heart for God and are willing to obey him in the little they understand. Cornelius was terrified when he saw the angel, but understood that God wanted something with him. He did not waste time once he understood what he needed to do. He believed and acted in obedience. I am certain that even today there are people like Cornelius. I pray God will give me the opportunity to meet a Cornelius that I can guide in the understanding of the faith.

It is interesting to read that Cornelius was not only devout himself, but he led his family in this devotion. Moreover, it seems he also chose the people to serve him and the people in his close circle of friends who were devout people as well. Not many people would be willing to share a vision with servants and friends unless they shared in his beliefs. This detail speaks volumes of this man and his faith. Do I run my family like Cornelius? Do I choose my close friends carefully like Cornelius?

I am challenged by Cornelius greatly because he is very devout in his little understanding. I know I have a better understanding of the Gospel than he did at this point, but do I have half of his devotion? Are my prayers and alms ascending as a memorial to God; is God taking notice of what I do with my faith? Am I pleasing God with my life, family, and friends?

Father, help me be a devout Christian with a heart to pray, give, and lead my family to serve you. I also want to be an instrument in your hands to guide a Cornelius in this life to the kingdom. Grant me that opportunity. Amen.