Monday, July 19th
Read: Acts 23
Paul got arrested, beaten, and even had an attempt on his life. He had to face his accusers and give reason for his words and actions. In this chapter of Acts, Paul’s words incited argument between the Sadducees and Pharisees and prompted the Jews to plan an ambush that would take his life. Through it all, the Lord stood near Paul and reminded him to “Take courage.”
God knew that Paul’s troubles would not end there. He told Paul to take courage because his mission wasn’t over. God’s next mission field for Paul was Rome. Within this story we find Paul slyly escaping an argument and sending his accusers in a fight with one another. We may find ourselves easily thrust into arguments and fights, but this is not the way of a true revolutionary. Sometimes, we’re not even sure how arguments begin.
The Lord has a track record of sending the enemy into confusion and thwarting his plans. The story in 2 Chronicles 20:20-23 illustrates this principle well. King Jehoshaphat led his army into battle with praise and worship of the Lord at the forefront. As they began to honor God in this way, their enemies were confused and began to fight one another! God’s people were spared.
Jesus—the greatest example of a revolutionary—never got caught up with people such as the Pharisees and their deceptive arguments. He was slow to speak and quick to listen to the Holy Spirit who always gave the right response. After talking with Jesus, sometimes his adversaries went away confused and up in arms with each other. God thwarts the plans of the wicked and accomplishes much through the obedience of the righteous.
God provided for and protected Paul every step of his journey. In order to escape the planned ambush, God used Paul’s nephew (who heard of the plan) to provide a commander of the Roman army to escort him safely there. God may not use the most obvious methods, but He always looks out for us and always puts us where we need to be. God thwarted the enemy in this circumstance so that His will could be done through Paul’s mission to Rome. The Lord trusted Paul with this work and mission because of his proven faithfulness and obedience.
Process:
1. Do you get caught up in worthless arguments? What can you do to ensure you’re only involved in discussions that edify others, bring glory to God and extend the work of His Kingdom?
2. Has God entrusted you with a specific mission? If not, how can you work towards faithfulness and obedience to Him today so that He can trust you with a larger task? How can you be sure that you are fulfilling God’s mission for your life?