Acts 25 - 1.31.23
Scripture
Acts 25:25-27
I found he had done nothing deserving of death, but because he made his appeal to the Emperor I decided to send him to Rome.
Observation
In Acts 21, Paul returns to Jerusalem and is soon arrested. Paul is beaten, there is a plot to murder him, and he is jailed for years before he receives a trial. When he finally gets his day in court, the governor is at a loss on how to handle the situation. But God was in control – it was all part of His plan to spread the gospel throughout the world. He spoke to Paul in Acts 23:11 - 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.”
Understanding
“God … providentially so ordered the decisions of individuals and nations that embedded in Roman law is an appeal mechanism that can now be employed by his witness, who was born a Roman citizen. But it requires Paul to exercise faith, courage, integrity and shrewdness.” (IVP New Testament Commentary Series)
In spite of overwhelming circumstances, Paul put His trust in God and obeyed.
There are times when we pray and God acts. There are other times when it seems He isn’t listening. We wonder, Where is God? Why isn’t He taking action? It is in those times that we must put our trust in Him.
Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declarets the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Romans 8:28 - And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
We don’t always know the plan. But He knows the plan! Our job is to have faith and trust.
Life Application
God, please help me to remember that when I don’t see an immediate answer to my prayers, it does not mean that You are not working. Help me to put my trust in You and believe that You are in control and that you have a plan for me. Help me to not give up in those circumstances, but to continue to pray and believe.
- Debbie Dunn
