January 26, 2022 | Acts 23

Read Acts 23

Scripture- Acts 23:11- The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.”

Observation- This whole chapter seemed to be mounting pressure against Paul. Things seemed to be spinning out of control and his life was in real danger. Yet in the midst of it all, there’s a moment of calm as the Lord appeared to Paul telling him that he would testify about the Lord in Rome. It had to have brought Paul confidence in the midst of the chaos. 

Application- Life can seem overwhelming at times. I may not stand before a ruling council feeling as if the future of my life is spinning out of control, but the circumstances around me feel like that at times. Sometimes it feels like everything is spinning out of control, I get overwhelmed, worried, and frantic. Yet, in that moment God’s Word reminds me that he is with me. His presence never leaves me. He is in control of all things, including the chaotic times. That fills me with confidence in those moments. 

Prayer- Father in heaven, thank you for having control over all things; even the chaotic times. In those moments, calm my heart and help me to trust in you. Thank you for Jesus and the forgiveness you’ve won for me through him. Because of him, I know that your promise to never leave me is true. Amen.