Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read Acts 22:21-30.
Beginning at chapter 13, almost all of the remainder of the Book of Acts is the Spirit-led adventures of the Apostle Paul. We read of the many of the cities he visited, how he led so many to faith in Jesus Christ and organized them into the house churches to which he later wrote. He also faced many persecutions, ironically from the same kind of people he had once been part of in trying to destroy this growing movement of the followers of Jesus. Some of what happened to him sounds very much like what happened to Jesus. He was falsely accused, faced beatings and imprisonment and threats of death.
The way of Jesus Christ continues to be opposed to the ways of this world. So, the more we learn to live the way of Jesus, the more we will find ourselves in opposition to the world around us. The sacrificial love he taught us will be opposed by hate. The giving he taught us will be opposed by greed. The forgiveness he taught us will be opposed by vengeance.
Throughout all of his ordeals, Paul knew the presence of God was with him. We can also have that “blessed assurance” no matter what challenges we face as individuals or as a people united in the mission of our Lord.
Personal Worship Option:
Every so often in my prayer time, I sing a hymn written by Harry Emerson Fosdick in 1930 (94 years ago). Here are two verses for you to consider praying today:
God of grace and God of glory, on thy people pour thy power; crown thine ancient church’s story; bring her bud to glorious flower. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, for the facing of this hour.
Lo! the hosts of evil round us scorn thy Christ, assail his ways! Fears and doubts too long have bound us; free our hearts to work and praise. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, for the living of these days. Amen.
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