Acts 25:1-12
Reflect
A few years ago a dear friend of ours was wrongly accused and forced from his ministry, family and friends. He waited years to be acquitted. At first he suffered a sense of despair and helplessness as days slowly turned into months. As he sought the Lord and was strengthened in faith and hope, a deep sense of peace and dependence on God resulted. In time, his acquittal brought him into a greater ministry, and closer walk with friends and family. When Paul was converted, the Lord said that he would be a witness to Gentiles, Jews and kings (Acts 9:15), and in Rome (23:11). This was fulfilled through persecution from the Jewish leaders. Paul exercised faith, courage, integrity and shrewdness. Paul knew his rights as a Roman citizen, and used them to the advantage of the Gospel. Appealing to Caesar’s court resulted in him being protected by Rome, transported by Rome and placed before the highest authority where he could witness. God was working behind these frustrating, unjust circumstances and repeated false charges to fulfil His purpose for His servant, Paul.
Apply
No matter how difficult the circumstances seem, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5,6
Jerilyn Bayer
Pray
- For those who need to be encouraged in heart and united in love.
- Pray through the prayer page in the bulletin.
- Pray for Pastor Dan, our Lead Team Pastor and his family.
- Pray for our Lead Team Pastor Intern, Robyn Crown.
- Pray for our Hospitality Coordinator, Irene Dickau.
- Pray for our Congregational Life Pastor, Mike Bartusek and his family.