Acts 23 - Praying God's Word

 

Please read Acts 23.

www.blueletterbible.org/nasb/act/23/1/s_1041001

Meditate on verses 11 and 16.

 

But on the night immediately following,

 the LORD stood at his side and

 said, "Take courage, for as you

have solemnly witnessed to My cause

 at Jerusalem, so you must witness at Rome also."

But the son of Paul's sister heard of their ambush,

 and he came and entered the barracks and told Paul.

 

For his own protection, Paul was in jail after meeting with the Jewish Council (vs. 1-10).  Unbeknown to Paul and the Roman leadership, the Council conspired to ambush Paul the following day on his way to more Council meetings (vs. 12-15).  Paul’s nephew overheard the plot, reporting it to Paul and then to the Roman commander.  But prior to the plot being hatched, Jesus told Paul he would go to Rome (vs. 11-12).  Can you imagine Paul’s confidence he would not die because he heard from his LORD? 

 

What confidence do Christ’s Words bring to you?  Hear what He says to you in John 14:27:

 

"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you;

not as the world gives, do I give to you.

Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.”

 

The Holy Spirit brings peace and self-control in our times of fear.  Just imagine the courage He gave Paul’s nephew to talk to the Romans!  The more you walk with the Spirit, the more confidence you have when He urges you to do something.  Be courageous.  You are not alone on the journey.

 

Pray Acts 23:11 over yourself and those for whom you stand guard as a faithful, prayerful watchman (Isaiah 62:6-7).

 

“LORD Jesus, stand at ______ and my side. 

Give us courage to solemnly witness to

Your cause every place we go.

In Your name, Jesus~”

 

The WATCHMAN on the WALL, 4 – Dr. Ron and Marsha Harvell