SCRIPTURE: Acts 22:30-23:11
The plot of Paul’s story takes another turn. Paul is released from custody to stand before the Jewish leaders. He states that he has a good conscience before God. Ananias can’t accept that and orders his face slapped! Paul curses Ananias. Paul is an honorable man. When he realized that Ananias was the high priest he apologizes, even though he did not know and it was unfair that Ananias ordered someone to slap Paul. Paul does the right thing even under awful circumstances.
Paul just deals with each moment as it comes to him.
Isn’t it great how God came to Paul that night to reassure him and to let him know the next part of His plan? When God calls us to do something He does not leave us alone. He gives us what we need to get through.
Thank-you God that You equip us to do what You call us to do. Please enable me to be always honorable, even in difficult circumstances. Please show me how to deal with each moment as it comes. Thank-you, Amen.
If I was on trial for Jesus, would my actions accuse me? Can others see that I am a living letter, an epistle, for Christ, being read by all who see me? Paul admitted that he lived as a citizen before God. I too, must live this in His presence, being strengthened and directed by His Spirit. But above all, I am renewed through His blood and made clean!
When in difficult circumstances, I must watch the words that I speak. Christ tells us to turn the other cheek. My words must be a blessing and not a curse. I must not speak evil of the ruler of the people, neither should I do anything which dishonours my office as Christian by what I say and do. A metal is purified by fire. Life’s happenings will show my metal.
Purify my heart
Let me be as gold and precious silver
Purify my heart
Let me be as gold, pure gold
Refiner’s fire
My heart’s one desire
Is to be holy
Set apart for You Lord
I choose to be holy
Set apart for You my Master
Ready to do Your will
Incredibly well written piece of writing!!!
You’r indeed correct on this piece!!