Acts 28 - 11.9.23
Scripture - Acts 28:30 - 31 - For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.
Observation – In this chapter Paul finally arrives in Rome where God had promised him safe passage. There were MANY obstacles along the way and Paul could have been killed several times, however, God would let nothing stop his servant, and His servant never stopped. He prayed for, and healed many, he remained calm and trusted God in all the chaotic circumstances he went through. He didn’t complain or ever lose hope. His confidence remained in the Lord. He was very aware of God’s presence and His control over every circumstance. He knew God was with him even when he was under persecution. He knew God was with him even when he was being dragged from one ruler to another to plead his case and put in one jail after another even though he was innocent. He knew God was with him even during the storm, when it looked like the sea would devour everyone on board. Just as Pastor Levi’s very timely message Sunday, titled Even If…..Paul reminds us that there is never a time, nor place, nor circumstance when He is isn’t with us.
Application - It’s crazy for me to really think about all the times that I freeze up sharing the Gospel. I have never been persecuted as Paul has. I never had people try to put me on trial or throw me in jail for something I didn’t do, yet I still find excuses for not being outwardly 100% devoted to the Lord – I had a bad day, it’s too hard, I am just way too busy to stop and share, this or that person doesn’t LOOK like they will listen to me, or they already told me they didn’t want to hear it. Boo Hoo! I really need to get over it. Paul was beaten, wrongly accused, isolated, etc. and he just kept plugging away - sharing with the soldiers, the jailers, the Centurion, and even Kings. God used all his trials to cause interaction with prominent ears and even gave him favor with those in authority over him so that EVEN WHEN he was stuck at home under house arrest for two years, he was able to share the Gospel. He was able to write letters to friends, family, the churches, as well as receive visitors who cared for his needs, and listened as he taught them and shared the Word - and the Word spread throughout the world! That’s impact. That’s a life worthy and honoring of God. I want to live like that. So that everything I am doing revolves around sharing His love and the Gospel. I want to make an impact on the world!
Prayer – Lord help me proclaim your Kingdom and teach others about you with all boldness and without hindrance because you are with me EVEN when it is hard, or I’m busy, or stressed, or uncomfortable. You are with me when I’m scared, angry, hurt and confused. You are with me in the pain and suffering that life brings. You are with me in the joy and laughter, in the wind and when a butterfly goes by and reminds me of my mama. You are with me when I see my child going through a difficult time and it feels hopeless. You are with me when I am laughing uncontrollably with my family or friends. You are with me in all the words I speak in YOUR name!
Father, in the name of Jesus, I am of good courage. I pray that you grant to me with all boldness to speak forth your word. I pray that freedom of utterance be given me that I may open my mouth to proclaim boldly the mystery of the good news of the Gospel – that I may declare it boldly as I ought to. Prayers.org
- Crystal Flory
