Good morning! Have you ever been in a situation where you thought, okay- that’s enough I can’t do any more? Today, we will continue our reading in Acts chapter 23, where the Lord encouraged Paul.

⁶ Paul realized that some members of the high council were Sadducees and some were Pharisees, so he shouted, “Brothers, I am a Pharisee, as were my ancestors! And I am on trial because my hope is in the resurrection of the dead!”

⁷ This divided the council—the Pharisees against the Sadducees— ⁸ for the Sadducees say there is no resurrection or angels or spirits, but the Pharisees believe in all of these. ⁹ So there was a great uproar. Some of the teachers of religious law who were Pharisees jumped up and began to argue forcefully. “We see nothing wrong with him,” they shouted. “Perhaps a spirit or an angel spoke to him.” ¹⁰ As the conflict grew more violent, the commander was afraid they would tear Paul apart. So he ordered his soldiers to go and rescue him by force and take him back to the fortress.

¹¹ That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said, “Be encouraged, Paul. Just as you have been a witness to me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome as well.” – Acts 23:6-11 NLT

Reflection

While Paul had to face some of his toughest critics in Jerusalem, he was beaten, arrested, nearly lashed and ordered struck. But in the night, the Lord stood by Him and encouraged Him. Not only did the Lord encourage Paul, the Lord gave Paul another assignment.

Sisters and brothers, you may not be going through the same trials as Paul, but you may be experiencing some difficulties in your life that God is going to work out in your favor. Paul could have said, Lord, no thank you this is enough, I think I am done – this task has become too difficult. However, in the next few chapters we will read about Paul on his next assignment.

Sisters and brothers, the Lord has a plan and a purpose for you. He has your next assignment already planned out. Don’t give up on waiting on the Lord. When the time is right, you will be directed toward the next thing – have an obedient heart to listen and follow through when the Lord calls or instructs you. In the meantime, keep growing and learning where you have been placed. Continue to be equipped by the Word and remain faithful to the Lord. Stay focused. The Lord will direct your path.

Prayer

Father God thank you for never leaving us or forsaking us. Thank you for the times you have reminded us of who you are and the purpose you have for us. Lord, forgive us for not following through on the things you have prompted us to do. Strengthen our hearts and minds to align to your perfect will for our lives. Lord, continue to encourage us and transform us into who you have called us to be. In Jesus name, amen.

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