Taken to Safety

 

Taken to Safety

Acts 23: ²³ Then he called two of his centurions and ordered them, “Get ready a detachment of two hundred soldiers, seventy horsemen and two hundred spearmen to go to Caesarea at nine tonight. ²⁴ Provide horses for Paul so that he may be taken safely to Governor Felix.”

 

²⁵ He wrote a letter as follows:

²⁶ Claudius Lysias,

To His Excellency, Governor Felix:

Greetings.

 

²⁷ This man was seized by the Jews and they were about to kill him, but I came with my troops and rescued him, for I had learned that he is a Roman citizen. ²⁸ I wanted to know why they were accusing him, so I brought him to their Sanhedrin. ²⁹ I found that the accusation had to do with questions about their law, but there was no charge against him that deserved death or imprisonment. ³⁰ When I was informed of a plot to be carried out against the man, I sent him to you at once. I also ordered his accusers to present to you their case against him.

 

============

 

“Get in. We’ll take you home” were the relieving words I heard from a friend’s parent. The impending threat of another school coming over to beat us up, alarmed the principal enough to let us out a few minutes early. Since the threat was seemingly real, a ride was truly welcome.

 

• There were times when I faced threats from people I did not know.
• There were times when I worried about my safety.
• There were times when I felt relieved when I was taken to safety.

 

The commander found out about the plot against Paul’s life. He learned that forty men vowed not to eat until Paul was dead. He summoned 470 soldiers to surround and protect Paul as they escorted him out of town. He then wrote a letter to the governor, ensuring Paul would not be turned away.

 

• GOD wants me to know HE provides protection.
• GOD wants me to seek HIS deliverance.
• GOD wants me to understand HE is aware of every circumstance and is in control.

 

Life can be scary on this cursed earth. I mean, even though I believe in JESUS, there are many who do not and will not. My fight is not against them, but the ruler of this world rages war against anyone who puts their trust in JESUS.

 

Many troubles are hurled at me, trying to get me to question GOD’s power and love for me. BUT GOD prevails. JESUS already won the war when HE died and was raised from the dead triumphantly. My time on this cursed world is temporary. I am grateful, one day I will be taken to eternal safety, but until then, I remain as a servant of JESUS.

 

• Are you facing huge problems?
• Is your safety in danger?
• Will you continue to stand firm in your belief in JESUS, knowing HE is willing to send protection to you today?

 

Dear LORD, please protect the reader. Surround the reader with YOUR angels today. amen

Tell It

 Tell It

Acts 23: ¹⁷ Then Paul called one of the centurions and said, “Take this young man to the commander; he has something to tell him.” ¹⁸ So he took him to the commander.

 

The centurion said, “Paul, the prisoner, sent for me and asked me to bring this young man to you because he has something to tell you.”

 

¹⁹ The commander took the young man by the hand, drew him aside and asked, “What is it you want to tell me?”

 

²⁰ He said: “Some Jews have agreed to ask you to bring Paul before the Sanhedrin tomorrow on the pretext of wanting more accurate information about him. ²¹ Don’t give in to them, because more than forty of them are waiting in ambush for him. They have taken an oath not to eat or drink until they have killed him. They are ready now, waiting for your consent to their request.”

²² The commander dismissed the young man with this warning: “Don’t tell anyone that you have reported this to me.”

 

============

 

“Don’t be a tattle-tale” was the unwritten code. In other words, when you see something that is wrong, don’t tell anyone or face the consequences. But when I saw a person I knew about to get beat up, I had to do something. I told on the bully.

 

• There were times when I had to tell someone about impending injustice.
• There were times when I had to stand up for someone who couldn’t stand up for themselves.
• There were times when I had to let others know about the disregard for another person.

 

Paul’s nephew informed him of the plot against him. Paul sent him to the commander to tell the details of the plot. The commander listened to Paul’s nephew and told him not to tell anyone he had reported this to him.

 

• GOD wants me to know I will be protected when I have to tell about a bully.
• GOD wants me to know HE sees the bully so I can have courage that I am doing the right thing when I inform others.
• GOD wants me to know HE does not take injustice lightly.

 

Standing up for someone is not easy. I mean, it seems like I would get in trouble if I told about abuse of power. BUT GOD wants me to worry more about following HIM than of the temporary power the thugs yield.

 

GOD’s power is everlasting. HE wants me to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves. HE knows there will be some who will never turn to HIM. Some of those people may even try to recklessly harm others, not knowing their demise. I am grateful GOD enables me to stand firm because of HIS promises to me.

 

• Do you see injustice but are not doing anything about it?
• Are you worried about what others will think of you if you told on someone?
• Will you ask GOD for courage and protection as you speak on “that” person’s behalf today?

Watched and Watched Over

 

Watched and Watched Over

Acts 23: ¹² The next morning some Jews formed a conspiracy and bound themselves with an oath not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul. ¹³ More than forty men were involved in this plot. ¹⁴ They went to the chief priests and the elders and said, “We have taken a solemn oath not to eat anything until we have killed Paul. ¹⁵ Now then, you and the Sanhedrin petition the commander to bring him before you on the pretext of wanting more accurate information about his case. We are ready to kill him before he gets here.”

 

¹⁶ But when the son of Paul’s sister heard of this plot, he went into the barracks and told Paul.

 

============

 

When the driver cut me off, rage filled my mind. I thought of a great idea. I would speed up, get in front of the reckless driver and slam on brakes to scare him or her straight. Brilliant! As I put my plan in motion, I moved to the passing lane, hit a pot hole and blew out a tire.

 

• There were times when my plots to harm someone, were being watched.
• There were times when my plots to get back at someone were being seen.
• There were times when my plots to take justice in my own hands, failed miserably.

 

A small group of forty or more Jews decided to take matters in their own hands. They thought it would be better to go against the law they strictly followed to rid themselves of their problem. They decided to kill Paul and went to the church leaders to bring them into the conspiracy. BUT GOD placed Paul’s nephew close by.

 

• GOD watches over those whom I plot against.
• GOD watches over me when people plot against me.
• GOD watches over the just and the unjust so HE would prefer that I make a choice to watch over people rather than harm them.

 

“MY grace is sufficient” says the LORD. This statement is mind boggling. I mean, HE has grace for those who harm me and for me wanting to harm them back. HE places the HOLY SPIRIT in me as a guide to drop my “rage” and replace it with “right.”

 

When I am guided by the HOLY SPIRIT, I am led to peaceful places. My rage subsides and peace prevails. I am grateful for GOD’s protection.

 

• Are you harboring bitterness towards someone?
• Do you think you would feel better if that person were harmed?
• Will you release your rage and receive peace that only comes from the HOLY SPIRIT today?

Know the Audience

 

Know the Audience

Acts 23: ⁶ Then Paul, knowing that some of them were Sadducees and the others Pharisees, called out in the Sanhedrin, “My brothers, I am a Pharisee, descended from Pharisees. I stand on trial because of the hope of the resurrection of the dead.” ⁷ When he said this, a dispute broke out between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, and the assembly was divided. ⁸ (The Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, and that there are neither angels nor spirits, but the Pharisees believe all these things.)

 

⁹ There was a great uproar, and some of the teachers of the law who were Pharisees stood up and argued vigorously. “We find nothing wrong with this man,” they said. “What if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him?” ¹⁰ The dispute became so violent that the commander was afraid Paul would be torn to pieces by them. He ordered the troops to go down and take him away from them by force and bring him into the barracks.

 

¹¹ The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.”

 

============

 

When I saw the agenda, I prepared for only 15 minutes of material. My portion was supposed to only be ten minutes with five minutes of question and answers. I shook off the nervousness as I spoke to the large crowd about some, not so good, news. The question and answer period turned into a rage filled rant session at what I presented. I got off the stage two and a half hours later.

 

• There were times when I should have studied who I was going to present to.
• There were times when I should have prepared myself for the audience I was talking to.
• There were times when I should have been ready for any audience.

 

Paul recognized who he was speaking to. He saw Sadducees and Pharisees. One group believed in the resurrection, angels and demonic spirits. The other believed in morality through the law without resurrection. Paul spoke to the core of where the two groups disputed. This caused an uproar. Later, the LORD encouraged Paul that he would be safe.

 

• GOD wants me to learn about HIM.
• GOD wants me to seek people to tell about HIS amazing love.
• GOD wants me to be ready to speak about JESUS in different ways because each person is special to HIM.

 

Talking “at” people about JESUS is a turn-off. I mean, the way I approach people needs to be tailored to the individual. The HOLY SPIRIT is gentle and guides me with gentle words. HE takes my harsh, direct words and softens them to those who need kindness.

 

HE toughens my soft words and enables me to deliver a stronger message to those who may have caused someone harm. JESUS is my guide and the HOLY SPIRIT is my lead.

 

• Who has GOD put on your mind?
• What words is HE giving you to tell that person about JESUS?
• Will you take a moment to learn about the person so the HOLY SPIRIT can deliver the right words at the right time through you today?

 

Clear Conscience

Acts 23: Paul looked straight at the Sanhedrin and said, “My brothers, I have fulfilled my duty to God in all good conscience to this day.” ² At this the high priest Ananias ordered those standing near Paul to strike him on the mouth. ³ Then Paul said to him, “God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! You sit there to judge me according to the law, yet you yourself violate the law by commanding that I be struck!”

 

⁴ Those who were standing near Paul said, “How dare you insult God’s high priest!”

 

⁵ Paul replied, “Brothers, I did not realize that he was the high priest; for it is written: ‘Do not speak evil about the ruler of your people.

 

============

 

After telling the lie, immediately I asked myself… “What do I have to gain from this lie?” I mean, I had gotten in the habit of lying to cover myself. I was insecure about everything and I felt a lie was easier to live with. I even lied to myself.

 

There were lies I told myself to hide from the truth of my sins.

There were lies I told others to hide the fact that I was an imposter when it came to “being good.”

There were lies I told by withholding my sin and looking at everyone else’s.

 

Paul spoke directly to the church leaders and said his actions were done “in all good conscience.” This meant Paul was as open about his sin as he could be. His motive was purely based on speaking about JESUS being GOD.

 

With this, the high priest had Paul to be punched in the mouth. The high priest did not act like one of GOD’s servants, so Paul acknowledged what he had done based on the scripture.

 

GOD wants me to learn about HIM so I can live with a clear conscience.

GOD wants me to understand what true freedom means.

GOD wants me to seek HIS kingdom so my conscience can remain clear.

 

Sin throws me off. I mean, when I sin, my conscience feels guilty and I look for GOD’s punishment. When I do that, it means I do not fully understand HIS grace. HE forgave me once and for all when HE said “It is finished.”  

 

Yes, there will be consequences to my sin, but knowing JESUS forgave all my sins clears my conscience. HE sent the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside me, guiding me away from the stronghold of sin. I may not be perfect, but I am taking a step in GOD’s direction each day.

 

What are you hiding?

Are you looking at someone else’s sins and not your own?

Will you admit your sins to others so your conscience can be clear to speak about JESUS today?

 

Found Out

 

Found Out

Acts 22: ²⁹ Those who were about to interrogate him withdrew immediately. The commander himself was alarmed when he realized that he had put Paul, a Roman citizen, in chains.

 

³⁰ The commander wanted to find out exactly why Paul was being accused by the Jews. So the next day he released him and ordered the chief priests and all the members of the Sanhedrin to assemble. Then he brought Paul and had him stand before them.

 

============

 

Not wanting people to be “offended”, I hid my relationship with JESUS at work. I mean, I worked with people who worshipped other things than the LORD of my life. I hid the relationship so well, I acted like everyone else. When they were mean, lying, undermining, and slanderous, I figured that was just part of “the game.”

 

• There were times when I hid who GOD wanted me to be.
• There were times when I denied my relationship with GOD so I would not “offend” anyone.
• There were times when I felt my godly actions would speak for themselves, but my actions were like everyone else.

 

When the commander found out Paul was a Roman citizen, he put a stop to the interrogation. The soldiers were about to beat Paul, possibly trying to see if he were a spy from some other nation. When the commander found out Paul’s citizenship, he wanted to find out why the leaders of the Jews were accusing him.

 

• GOD wants people to find out my relationship with JESUS.
• GOD wants me to be overt with my relationship with JESUS so people can find out what salvation means.
• GOD wants me to be ready with an answer about salvation at a moment’s notice.

 

Shining my “light” and adding “salt” are terms used to mean “let people know.” Light is very distinct when it is dark and salt is very distinct when placed on food. When I hide GOD’s light the darkness prevails around me. When I do not add GOD’s salt, the other flavors of philosophies permeate the meal of life.

 

Fortunately, I only need a little light and salt to make a point. JESUS is my Savior, in HIM I believe. I am glad that is all the light and salt I need.

 

• Are you hiding your relationship with JESUS?
• Are you trying to be covert with your relationship with JESUS so you will not “offend” someone?
• Will you allow people to find out who you really are by telling them your sins and about JESUS who forgave you for your sins today?

True Citizenship

 

True Citizenship

Acts 22: ²² The crowd listened to Paul until he said this. Then they raised their voices and shouted, “Rid the earth of him! He’s not fit to live!”

²³ As they were shouting and throwing off their cloaks and flinging dust into the air, ²⁴ the commander ordered that Paul be taken into the barracks. He directed that he be flogged and interrogated in order to find out why the people were shouting at him like this. ²⁵ As they stretched him out to flog him, Paul said to the centurion standing there, “Is it legal for you to flog a Roman citizen who hasn’t even been found guilty?”

 

²⁶ When the centurion heard this, he went to the commander and reported it. “What are you going to do?” he asked. “This man is a Roman citizen.”

²⁷ The commander went to Paul and asked, “Tell me, are you a Roman citizen?”

“Yes, I am,” he answered.

²⁸ Then the commander said, “I had to pay a lot of money for my citizenship.”

“But I was born a citizen,” Paul replied.

 

============

 

Feeling out of place became the norm for me. After a while, I accepted my misfit status and sat alone in many places. I did not like those who laughed at me or who talked negatively about me. I felt alone.

 

• There were times when I felt alone in a crowd.
• There were times when I felt I did not belong.
• There were times when I felt there had to be another place where I felt welcome.

 

Paul explained his background as a Jew, but when he said he was sent to the Gentiles by GOD, the crowd got angrier. The commander ordered him to be taken inside and flogged. Paul questioned this move, knowing the local law. Paul was a citizen and knew his rights.

 

• GOD wants me to know where I came from.
• GOD wants me to understand that this cursed world is not my home.
• GOD wants me to focus on HIS kingdom while I am still in this cursed world.

 

Before I was born, GOD made me. I mean, HE knew everything about me before I was ever born. HE chose me and I chose HIM. I believed in HIS SON JESUS as my Savior and HE added me into HIS kingdom as a citizen. The only kingdom that matter is HIS eternal one. I am glad to be part of GOD’s family and a citizen of HIS kingdom.

 

• Do you feel alone, even in a crowd?
• Do you feel like your life has a higher purpose than the one you are living?
• Will you become a citizen of GOD’s kingdom by believing that JESUS died for your sins and is now alive with all authority today and forever?

Anyone Can Change

 

Anyone Can Change

Acts 22: ¹⁷ “When I returned to Jerusalem and was praying at the temple, I fell into a trance ¹⁸ and saw the Lord speaking to me. ‘Quick!’ he said. ‘Leave Jerusalem immediately, because the people here will not accept your testimony about me.’

 

¹⁹ “‘Lord,’ I replied, ‘these people know that I went from one synagogue to another to imprison and beat those who believe in you. ²⁰ And when the blood of your martyr Stephen was shed, I stood there giving my approval and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.’

²¹ “Then the Lord said to me, ‘Go; I will send you far away to the Gentiles.’ ”

 

============

 

Assessing where I was in life, I realized I did not like the location. I mean, I blamed everyone for what happened to me, I lusted and acted on the lust a lot, and while I had a good job, it felt dead end. Something had to change.

 

• There was a time when I felt trapped by my life.
• There was a time when I felt things were not going well.
• There was a time when I felt I had reached the top of my purpose and I hadn’t really gone very far in life.

 

Paul told about a very intimate conversation he had with the LORD. He told the angry crowd about the warning JESUS gave him. In the conversation, Paul made it clear how wrong he had been towards GOD’s true followers. JESUS did something strange after the confession. HE protected Paul and gave him something to do.

 

• GOD saw my sin before I was born and still rescued me.
• GOD knew I would not choose HIM yet HE chose me.
• GOD saw the hurt I would cause others, yet HE protected me and sent me to live for HIS purpose.

 

Sometimes it is hard for me to believe that JESUS forgave me for ALL my sins. I mean, even the sins I returned to over and over? Yes, HE forgave those sins. How about the sins I promised never to do, yet did them again. Yes, HE forgave those sins. How about the BIG sins? Yes, HE forgave those sins too.

 

Big, small, hidden and frequent, JESUS forgives those who believe they need to be forgiven. No matter how often or how big the sin, once I realize I need to be forgiven, JESUS is there. HE cannot wait to forgive me so HE can send me out to tell others. I am grateful for HIS everlasting love and forgiveness.

 

• Do you think you have sinned too much to be forgiven by JESUS?
• Are you still wrestling with the need to be forgiven by a higher being?
• Will you surrender your life to JESUS, letting HIM know you are tired of where you are in life so HE can fill it with HIS purpose through the HOLY SPIRIT today?

Able to See

 

Able to See

Acts 22: ¹² “A man named Ananias came to see me. He was a devout observer of the law and highly respected by all the Jews living there. ¹³ He stood beside me and said, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight!’ And at that very moment I was able to see him.

 

¹⁴ “Then he said: ‘The God of our ancestors has chosen you to know his will and to see the Righteous One and to hear words from his mouth. ¹⁵ You will be his witness to all people of what you have seen and heard. ¹⁶ And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.’

 

============

 

Looking at the problem, I could not figure out a solution at all. The problem seemed complicated and the solution seemed even more elusive. When I sat there, I felt lost. I mean, not knowing what was wrong made me feel like I was wandering in the dark.

 

• There were some problems that I faced that I could not see what the problem was.
• There were some problems that I encountered where I was blind to coming up with solutions.
• There were some problems that I endured because I was blind to the fact that I was the problem.

 

Paul explained how JESUS blinded him on the road to Damascus. He then told the angry mob of how Ananias, a devout observer of the law, was sent to him. Paul put in the law comment trying to address the angry Jews. He then explained that Ananias told him to receive his sight and he did. Paul was now able to see physically and spiritually.

 

• GOD wants me to open the eyes of my heart so I can see HIM regularly.
• GOD wants me to learn about HIM so I can see the problems HE sees.
• GOD wants me to experience HIS grace so I can show others the same grace HE showed me.

 

Seeing is important to GOD. Even blind people can see when they know JESUS as their

Savior. I mean, they have insights into the GOD’s kingdom that only come from JESUS. GOD wants me to see HIS power, HIS presence in every situation and HIS patience when I get anxious.

 

“Get up” is the call from GOD when I am down. HE baptizes me and sends me out to call on HIS name for every situation. I am grateful GOD opens my eyes to HIS kingdom daily.

 

• Are you blind to what GOD is doing in your life?
• Do you give credit to humans for what GOD is doing?
• Will you open your eyes to what JESUS has done for you so HE can use your heart to help others see HIM as the Savior today?

Important Assignment

 

Important Assignment

Acts 21: ⁶ “About noon as I came near Damascus, suddenly a bright light from heaven flashed around me. ⁷ I fell to the ground and heard a voice say to me, ‘Saul! Saul! Why do you persecute me?’

 

⁸ “‘Who are you, Lord?’ I asked.

 

“ ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting,’ he replied. ⁹ My companions saw the light, but they did not understand the voice of him who was speaking to me.

 

¹⁰ “‘What shall I do, Lord?’ I asked.

 

“ ‘Get up,’ the Lord said, ‘and go into Damascus. There you will be told all that you have been assigned to do.’ ¹¹ My companions led me by the hand into Damascus, because the brilliance of the light had blinded me.

 

============

 

When I heard “Do your assignments and bring them back tomorrow” I knew my night of relaxation was gone. Assignment meant homework and this on was long and hard. Why did I have to get a teacher who piled on the homework?

 

There were plenty of times when I did not want an assignment.

There were plenty of times when I wanted to just sit and do nothing.

There were plenty of times when I wanted others to do their assignments and mine too.

 

Paul continued to explain to the angry mob, how he came to do what he was doing. During his recollection, He asked two important questions. “Who are you, LORD?” and “What shall I do, LORD?” JESUS answered by telling Paul he had some assignments to do. Paul gladly wanted the assignments because the alternative was to be blinded by GOD, knowing it was his sins that caused it.

 

GOD wants me to get to know who HE is.

GOD wants me to ask HIM “What do you want me to do, LORD?”

GOD wants me to be open to what ever assignment HE has for me.

 

Being part of GOD’s plan is an honor. I mean HE doesn’t need me to do anything for HIM. HE is all powerful, all seeing and all knowing. No one can beat HIM and HE can handle any situation that arises. YET GOD wants me to be part of HIS plan.

 

HE assigns special tasks to me to reach HIS lost sheep. This means reaching humans who reject being part of HIS family and trying to convince them to stop this rejection and turn back to JESUS. HE is the master and I am the student.  I gladly learn of HIM so I can find rest to my soul.

 

What is your purpose in life?

Do you spend an enormous amount of time on human matters and little time on the kingdom?

Will you accept GOD’s important assignment HE has for you today to reach those only you can reach for HIM?

Clean Defense

 

Clean Defense

Acts 21: ⁴⁰ After receiving the commander’s permission, Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd. When they were all silent, he said to them in Aramaic

 

Acts 22: ¹ “Brothers and fathers, listen now to my defense.”

 

² When they heard him speak to them in Aramaic, they became very quiet.

Then Paul said: ³ “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city. I studied under Gamaliel and was thoroughly trained in the law of our ancestors. I was just as zealous for God as any of you are today. ⁴ I persecuted the followers of this Way to their death, arresting both men and women and throwing them into prison, ⁵ as the high priest and all the Council can themselves testify. I even obtained letters from them to their associates in Damascus, and went there to bring these people as prisoners to Jerusalem to be punished.

 

============

 

“Why aren’t you going to the bachelor party?” I was asked. Following GOD was new to me and I wanted to get it right this time. After returning to praying to GOD and really listening to the HOLY SPIRIT, I didn’t want the old way anymore. I tried to explain why I didn’t want to attend, but felt they thought I was judging them.

 

There were times when I tried to defend my faith.

There were times when I explained the wrongs I did.

There were times when I let everyone know I am no better than anyone else.

 

Paul hushed the crowd by speaking in a different language. He explained where he came from and more importantly, how devious he was towards GOD’s people. He explained how zealous he was in persecuting those who followed JESUS in an ironic attempt to follow the Law of Moses, given by GOD. His defense was no longer that he was right, rather he was wrong.

 

GOD wants me to explain to people that I was and still am a sinner.

GOD wants me to tell people that all of my sins make me deserving of the place made only for Satan’s destruction.

GOD wants me to let people know that only the love of JESUS can save them, just as HE saved a sinner like me.

 

Admitting my sins of lying, lusting, lurking and laziness helps others do the same. I mean, who wants to try to be like perfect people? GOD made salvation easy, but humans make it hard by telling others to clean up their act before they come to GOD.

 

HE wants people to come to HIM just as they are. In fact, the more clean a person thinks they are, on their own power, the further away from the truth they become. I am glad GOD loves me in the middle of my sins and has forgiven me for all of them.

 

Have you stopped certain sins and think you are clean because you stopped?

Do you think you are better than “that” person?

Will you stop comparing yourself to others and start looking for those who need to hear how many sins GOD saved you from today?

Something to Say

Something to Say

Acts 21: ³⁷ As the soldiers were about to take Paul into the barracks, he asked the commander, “May I say something to you?”

 

“Do you speak Greek?” he replied. ³⁸ “Aren’t you the Egyptian who started a revolt and led four thousand terrorists out into the wilderness some time ago?”

 

³⁹ Paul answered, “I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Please let me speak to the people.”

 

============

 

“We need you to go on stage and tell everyone about the new service” one of the higher-ups said. Up until this point I had a lot of opinions about it and voiced them regularly. Now that I had to speak about the new service, I felt speechless.

 

• There were times when I had to prepare myself with something to say.
• There were times when I had to study to have something to say.
• There were times when I had to be forced to have something to say.

 

Paul asked the commander “May I say something to you?” He had an explanation on his mind that he was prepared for. Paul had no idea he would be in this situation, so how could he be prepared? He probably remembered the other beatings and imprisonments and knew if he’d ever got into this position again he would be ready with something to say.

 

• GOD wants me to always be prepared to say something on HIS behalf.
• GOD wants me ready to speak about JESUS in a moment’s notice.
• GOD wants me to place HIS love in my heart so I can always speak from the heart versus thinking of what to say.

 

Experiencing GOD’s grace gives me something to say all the time. I mean, when I open my eyes to what GOD has done today, I can say something about HIS grace that I may not have seen yesterday.

 

GOD wants me to accept HIS life of purpose in teaching people about JESUS as the only Savior. This may cause turmoil to some and eternal comfort to others. BUT GOD is please when I have something to say about JESUS. I am glad HE gives me something to say.

 

• What would your last words be?
• Would you continue with trying to get your way or hold onto that argument if you were on your death bed?
• Will you practice your last words with everyone, teaching others about the love of JESUS being the solution to all issues today?

Carried by Enemies

 

Carried by Enemies

Acts 21: ³³ The commander came up and arrested him and ordered him to be bound with two chains. Then he asked who he was and what he had done. ³⁴ Some in the crowd shouted one thing and some another, and since the commander could not get at the truth because of the uproar, he ordered that Paul be taken into the barracks. ³⁵ When Paul reached the steps, the violence of the mob was so great he had to be carried by the soldiers. ³⁶ The crowd that followed kept shouting, “Get rid of him!”

 

============

 

Working for a person who did not like me was challenging. I mean he did not like my suggestions, solutions or unfortunately, my skin. I smiled at work daily, but hurt inside. “I’m going to wipe that smile off your face” he said to me one day. It seemed like I had no one in my corner.

 

There were times when it felt like everyone was against me.

There were times when it felt like the crowd was making things up about me.

There were times when it felt like I was being carried by those who hated me.

 

Paul was in a very difficult situation. The Jews, who did not believe JESUS was and is GOD, stirred up the crowd so much that guards had to come. They arrested Paul, but the crowd became even more violent. Paul had to be carried by soldiers to keep him safe.

 

GOD wants me to know HE is the one who is carrying me.

GOD wants me to believe HE is the one who protects me.

GOD wants me to trust in HIM and HIM alone.

 

Being carried by a job or a relative or a business becomes problematic at some point. I mean each of them will fail or have someone in them who will disappoint me. BUT GOD never disappoints me. HE raises my joy in spite of trouble.

 

HE leads me besides still waters and restores my soul. HE leads me in the paths of righteousness for HIS namesake. Even when my enemies, think they are carrying me, HE prepares a table for me that is plentiful. I am glad GOD shows me love. I am now willing to do the same for those who hate me.

 

Do you have people around you who hate you?

Do you feel like you are by yourself even in the crowd?

Will you turn your life over to JESUS so HE will always be with you, so you can begin to pray for those who persecute you today?

Courage for Truth

 

Courage for Truth

Acts 21: ²⁷ When the seven days were nearly over, some Jews from the province of Asia saw Paul at the temple. They stirred up the whole crowd and seized him, ²⁸ shouting, “Fellow Israelites, help us! This is the man who teaches everyone everywhere against our people and our law and this place. And besides, he has brought Greeks into the temple and defiled this holy place.” ²⁹ (They had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with Paul and assumed that Paul had brought him into the temple.)

 

³⁰ The whole city was aroused, and the people came running from all directions. Seizing Paul, they dragged him from the temple, and immediately the gates were shut. ³¹ While they were trying to kill him, news reached the commander of the Roman troops that the whole city of Jerusalem was in an uproar. ³² He at once took some officers and soldiers and ran down to the crowd. When the rioters saw the commander and his soldiers, they stopped beating Paul.

 

============

 

Feeling pressured and not wanting to get in trouble, I thought of a “story” to cover myself. I had broken the bottom window of the door by losing my grip on my bike. Something popped in my head. I could blame the kid from two doors over. I mean, he “could” throw things, right? So what if he was in his wheelchair and wasn’t outside and the bushes would have not made it possible.

 

There were times when I was determined to cover myself.

There were times when I was too scared to even admit wrong to myself.

There were times when I felt it was easier to lie rather than facing the consequences of my actions.

 

Some Jews recognized Paul and immediately thought of lies. They grabbed him and told the crowd that Paul, singlehandedly, told “everyone” “everywhere” to not follow the Jewish law that he upheld. They also supposed he brought a Gentile into a Jewish temple. They stirred the crowd to beat Paul because of their lies.

 

GOD wants me to be courageous enough to tell the truth.

GOD wants me to be in the practice of admitting my sin so when someone confronts me, it won’t sting as much.

GOD wants me to invite people to GOD rather than excluding them to one race.

 

Believing in “a” truth is dangerous. I mean I can convince myself of anything regardless of the overwhelming evidence. GOD has provided overwhelming evidence of HIS love for humanity through HIS SON JESUS. HE chose to die for my sins and for that I am truly grateful!

 

What lies are you telling yourself or others?

When will you grow up to stop lying to show you are superior or “right?”

If you are courageous enough to lie to others and yourself, will you add to your courage by dropping your lies and telling people about “the” truth of JESUS being the only Savior today?

Gift Back

 

Gift Back

Acts 21: ²⁶ The next day Paul took the men and purified himself along with them. Then he went to the temple to give notice of the date when the days of purification would end and the offering would be made for each of them.

 

============

 

After watching over me, and clearing my path, I was appreciative of him.  He became the CEO, so I couldn’t buy a gift that he didn’t already have. What should I give him? I called and offered myself as service to him and said thank you.

 

• There have been many people in my life who I cannot repay.
• There have been many people in my life who have done so much for me that I lost count.
• There have been many people in my life who have done more than I could ever imagine for me.

 

Paul and the men performed the ritual of purification and the offering atoning for sin. Paul followed the law, but knew that atonement for sin was through JESUS. Paul sacrificed his freedom of not needing to ever sacrifice an animal so he could show others the law was still important.

 

• GOD wants me to give my life back to HIM.
• GOD wants me to recognize what HE did through JESUS.
• GOD wants me to see, HE is the one who deserves all the gifts.

 

What do I give JESUS who died for me? I mean, HE owns everything and knows everything and is everywhere? GOD says “Simply believe in JESUS as the one and only Savior.” Is belief enough? YES. That’s all that is required. BUT THE HOLY SPIRIT makes me want to do more.

 

HE leads me to want more of JESUS every day. HE let’s me know that all my sins have been taken care of, and that avoiding sin does not make me clean. Any service or sin avoidance is only to say thank YOU to the one who has it all. I am grateful for what JESUS did for me.

 

• Is your heart full of worry that your relationship with JESUS is not what it should be?
• Do you think you should give more or work harder for the gift of salvation?
• Will you stop trying to work hard to manipulate GOD so you can see HE did everything just for you today?

Fighting Rumors

Fighting Rumors

Acts 21: ²⁰ When they heard this, they praised God. Then they said to Paul: “You see, brother, how many thousands of Jews have believed, and all of them are zealous for the law. ²¹ They have been informed that you teach all the Jews who live among the Gentiles to turn away from Moses, telling them not to circumcise their children or live according to our customs. ²² What shall we do? They will certainly hear that you have come, ²³ so do what we tell you. There are four men with us who have made a vow. ²⁴ Take these men, join in their purification rites and pay their expenses, so that they can have their heads shaved. Then everyone will know there is no truth in these reports about you, but that you yourself are living in obedience to the law. ²⁵ As for the Gentile believers, we have written to them our decision that they should abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality.”

============

Someone reported a rumor about me. I was highly insulted so I reacted quickly in defense. It seemed the more I reacted the worse the rumor got. In fact, more rumors got added because I was shaken.

• There were times when worried about what people thought of me.
• There were times when I tried to please everyone.
• There were times when I thought rumors could hurt my reputation.

The crowd at Jerusalem was excited to finally see Paul. He told them about all GOD had done. After hearing what Paul had to say, they warned him about the rumors of him preaching against the Laws of Moses. They vowed to clear his name and tell everyone he lived according to the law. They also instructed the Gentiles to have self-control.

• GOD wants me to know my reputation with HIM is spotless.
• GOD wants me to understand that HE forgave me and that is all that matters.
• GOD wants me to embrace HIS protection, especially when people lie about me.

Rumors and lies are very similar. I mean the motive behind both do not come from a good place. The enemy used rumors and lies to trick humanity into sin. He wants to do the same today. GOD holds my reputation.

HE sees my prayers, service and efforts to resist sin. While I fail in everything I do, the HOLY SPIRIT fortifies my relationship with JESUS. I am grateful I cannot be removed from GOD’s hand, even by rumor.

• Is someone slandering you?
• Do you feel your reputation is in trouble because someone is lying on you?
• Will you focus on what GOD wants in your life so you can stop worrying about what people think about you today?

Remember the Details

Remember the Details

Acts 21: ¹⁷ When we arrived at Jerusalem, the brothers and sisters received us warmly. ¹⁸ The next day Paul and the rest of us went to see James, and all the elders were present. ¹⁹ Paul greeted them and reported in detail what God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry.

============

After the vacation, I had lots to tell. I described the food, the service and entertainment in picture perfect detail. One description made me remember another fond memory and another. It was a great experience that I gladly shared with anyone who would listen.

There were times when I had plenty to say about something I enjoyed.

There were times when I remembered every detail of the experience.

There were times when I told strangers about the details so they could experience the same.

Paul was now in Jerusalem. After being met by a warm greeting, he told the details of what GOD had done on HIS travels. He must have mentioned the healing of many people and how GOD made a way for him to escape death over and over. He paved a way for other races to hear about JESUS.

GOD wants me to live my life for HIS purpose.

GOD wants me to make memories by serving many people.

GOD wants me to share my memories of how HE has worked in my life.

Sharing details of what GOD has done and is doing is highly important to HIM. I mean, HE wants people to be encouraged that they can get out of their trouble and be rewarded just by giving someone a drink of water in JESUS name. My experiences grow me up and sometimes help others do the same. I am glad the HOLY SPIRIT helps me remember the details.

What has GOD done in your life?

Do you remember an important story you need to share?

Will you write down the details or tell them to someone so they can be encouraged by what GOD is doing in your life today?