May 17

"And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul." — Acts 16:11.

WHAT a bold champion for the truth was the Apostle Paul! he was constantly employed either in exploring fresh ground on which to erect the standard of the cross; or visiting and watering the churches that were already planted. We find, on his separation from Barnabas, he takes Silas; they meet with Timothy at Derbe; Luke joins them at Troas; and they all set out for Philippi. They were not permitted to teach in the city, so they assembled the people without its walls. Here is a remarkable instance of success in the conversion of Lydia to God. Many things deserve our notice respecting it.

ITS SUBJECT. She is described by

Her name. "Lydia." What an honor to have her name recorded here! Though all saints have not this honor, yet they have their names written in the Lamb's book of life; and this stamps a more lasting dignity upon them than if they were emblazoned on the pages of history, or inscribed in the annals of fame.

Her employment. "A seller of purple." She was not one of those women of whom Paul speaks, "that learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house." Religion teaches us to be active and industrious in our lawful avocations in life, and to abide with God in our calling. Her occupation was humble, but honest.

Her birthplace. "Thyatira" was a city of some eminence in Asia Minor, and was situated at a very great distance from Philippi, where she now resided, and carried on her trade. We are not told why she left the place of her birth; but we are sure she did not regret it, as she could trace the leadings of a kind Providence in bringing her to sit under the ministry of Paul.

Her religious profession. "Which worshipped God." She was a moral but not a changed character, piously inclined, but not a possessor of piety; she worshipped God according to the light she had, and was thereby ready for further discoveries of Christ and salvation.

ITS MEANS. "She heard us." "Faith cometh by hearing." It is a privilege to have the sound of salvation in the ear; but a far greater one to experience the power of salvation in the heart. Lydia heard with attention, and no doubt with prayer; we are quite sure she heard with pleasure, because she heard with profit.