November 7, 2025 -Wait or Act?

MARK 16:19-20

LUKE 24:50-53

ACTS 1:1-2:47

Chronological Bible Readings

^Acts120 “For,” said Peter, “it is written in the Book of Psalms:

“‘May his place be deserted;   

 let there be no one to dwell in it,’

and,

“‘May another take his place of leadership.’

²¹ Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus was living among us, ²² beginning from John’s baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.”

²³ So they nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. ²⁴ Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen ²⁵ to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” ²⁶ Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.

Peter talking about replacing Judas Iscariot can see that the scripture says that there needs to be another to take his place. Which is absolutely true. God does intend for there to be 12 Apostles. So, in his human perspective as a leader in the church Peter assumes that they should search for a replacement. They nominate then they pray before casting lots to decide and they appoint Matthias.

Paul is the true 12th Apostle by God's choice and appointment. I think we do things like this all the time. We may see in scripture and hear from God that something is going to happen and instead of waiting for God to do it we try to make it happen ourselves. Notice God doesn't stop them, and I am sure that He used Mathias in that position to serve his purposes, but He still fulfilled His plan in His timing. When things don't work out the way we think they are supposed to, it does not mean that God didn't tell us something. But it may mean that we tried to make something happen that only God could do. The hardest thing to do is wait for God to give more instruction or to bring something about especially for people who have a heart to serve and please God. As a doer I get that. The hardest thing to do is wait. Lord, help me to know when to wait and when to act. I think if you have to cast lots or look for answers then the answer is wait.