16
Take Courage
Tim Savage11The 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.” Acts 23
So this is a curious verse, “…the Lord stood near Paul and said.” This event with Paul in Jerusalem happens after the resurrection and Jesus’ return to heaven, of course, God is all-powerful and can do anything, but it is curious that with no further explanation of this miracle, with no fan fare or flare, Jesus stood next to Paul and told him to take courage.
That’s not my main take away from this verse but it certainly gives one pause to think about it. My take away is that Jesus comforts Paul in a time of extreme pressure and confusion. Paul is almost torn to pieces in the Sanhedrin, he is the cause of a violent and crazy riot among the religious leaders. What a scene, it’s like watching the prim and proper government officials in England’s parliament throw blows and wrestle! Jesus appears to Paul, in person, and reassures him, “Take courage!” and promises him that he will, indeed, make it all the way to his final destination, Rome, to testify.
To me, this morning, it’s a reminder that Christ is with me, even when I face a disappointment or a set-back; that He stands near and guides and directs me down the preferred path. He says that I have something even better in store for you, something that I will bless and is in your best interest. “For I know the plans that I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11.
Paul didn’t know what lay around the corner, in fact, there was a death squad laying in wait for him; men who had vowed to neither eat or drink until they had killed him, but miraculously, the son of Paul’s sister overheard their plans and God protected him from evil. I don’t know what will happen once I walk out the door this morning, I can’t plan ahead past breakfast, but the Lord is near to me to guide me according to His will and He sees around the corner, past tomorrow and in to eternity – I want to follow Him.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for meeting with me daily and standing near to me giving me comfort and direction. You are my Savior and Creator.
In Jesus name,
Amen
