Zantie Swanepoel: When God Opens Your Heart – The Story of Lydia

In this inspiring episode of Radio Cape Pulpit, Zantie Swanepoel shares a powerful message about the importance of having an open heart to God – and how that openness must be reflected in our lives and actions. She uses the analogy of a lime tree: you know it's a lime tree not by its tag, but by the fruit it bears. Similarly, our words must be followed by lives that reflect God's Word. Zantie tells the story of Lydia of Thyatira (Acts 16), a successful businesswoman who sold expensive purple cloth. Though already a worshipper of God, something was still missing. When Paul preached, “the Lord opened her heart” to respond to the message. She and her entire household were baptized, she showed remarkable hospitality by inviting Paul and his companions into her home, and her home became one of the first meeting places for the church in Philippi. Zantie emphasises that God does not require us to be perfect or fully ready before He can use us – He uses what we already have: our work, resources, and influence. The key question is: “Is your heart open to God? And does your life follow?” When God opens your heart, your life will always follow – in service, generosity, and hospitality to others.