Today’s reading: Acts 22:30-23:11
After spending the night bound in chains, the Roman tribune brings Paul before the Jewish high priests and council for examination. As we’ve come to expect from Paul, his undoubtedly unpleasant and uncomfortable night in prison doesn’t faze him. True to form, he confidently addresses the council, and even gets a little feisty when one of the men slaps him across the face. Paul is truly functioning fully–firing on all cylinders–evidenced by the way he quickly assesses the crowd and then wisely presents his case in a way that he knows will cause disunion between his accusers.
Once again we see how, with God’s strength, Paul was able to boldly and competently represent Christ. What an incredible example and encouragement for us. But my favorite part of this account is the reassurance and encouragement God provides Paul in Acts 23:11. The night after this volatile interaction takes place, “the Lord stood by him and said, ‘Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome.'”
What does this account show us about God’s care, oversight and presence with us? How has God sustained and encouraged you through a difficult time or a season filled with disappointment? Tami
Source: Tami’s Blog
