Acting Without Thinking

Acting without Thinking

Rhoda

Read: Acts 12:1-14

As I scrubbed the bathroom sink, I noticed dust on the lightbulb. I grabbed a cloth, wet it, and started to wipe off the lightbulb. The moment the wet cloth touched the hot bulb, I heard it crack. I had let my cleaning frenzy override my common sense. What was I thinking? I wondered as I dealt with the pieces of the burst lightbulb. It’s lucky I wasn’t shocked!

Today’s passage tells of a young woman who acted without thinking. When God miraculously freed Peter from prison and certain death, he headed to the house where the persecuted Christians in Jerusalem were meeting. His knock on the door brought Rhoda, a servant girl. She recognized Peter’s voice, But instead of flinging the door open, she rushed back to tell the news to the group that had been fervently praying for Peter’s release. Rhoda’s mind was filled with joy in knowing that their beloved spiritual leader had been set free. She didn’t stop to think that she endangered his life again by leaving him standing outside on the street.

Many of us could tell stories of times when we’ve acted without thinking. During a pressing decision or crisis, it’s hard to remember that the first thing that comes into our minds is not necessarily the best thing to do. When we react emotionally, the consequences can range from embarrassment to danger. God has given us his Spirit, his Word, and prayer to help us live wisely. Rhoda acted foolishly by failing to let Peter into the house; we would be foolish not to open God’s Word and admit his guidance into our lives.

Wise people think before they act.

Proverbs 13:16