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Favor is not to be Squandered
Doug Buhr“As Paul was about to be brought into the barracks, he said to the commander, "May I say something to you?" And he said, "Do you know Greek? Then you are not the Egyptian who some time ago stirred up a revolt and led the four thousand men of the Assassins out into the wilderness?" But Paul said, "I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people." When he had given him permission, Paul, standing on the stairs, motioned to the people with his hand; and when there was a great hush, he spoke to them in the Hebrew dialect[...]
Acts 21:37-40 NASB
Paul had favor with the soldiers who arrested him. They had no reason to allow him to speak. He had not revealed his Roman citizenship and they had no idea who he was or what he had done. It is only by the power and favor of God that he was allowed to speak to this crowd.
I feel like I am often given favor with people that is not explainable except as the favor of God. Some of the favor I receive could be because of my reputation, but in today’s world reputation is not as powerful as it used to be. I must not take this favor for granted or abuse it. If God is giving me favor, there must be a kingdom purpose for it.
Lord I pray that I would not miss opportunities to advance the Kingdom. I do not wish to squander the favor that you have given me. Help me to see my mission as clearly as Paul saw his mission.
Amen
