And now, behold, bound by the Spirit, I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions await me. But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God. Acts 20:22-24
The apostle Paul wrote to his fellow believers in Ephesus to inform them about what he anticipated in Jerusalem. God disclosed to him that imprisonment and persecution from the Jewish leaders was awaiting. And it was. This imprisonment would take him all the way to Rome, fulfilling the great calling on his life, and then sadly, ending it. But, what an impact! The apostle Paul was certainly courageous.
Following the call of God is at watershed moments, nothing short of frightening and dangerous. And that’s when God calls us to be courageous. I am thinking about the many martyrs recently killed by persecuting Islamic radical movements (eg. in Libya) and how many of the Christians are going to their very death with unswerving allegiance to Jesus Christ, dying a death they don’t deserve, at the hands of misguided people influenced by evil. They are certainly courageous.
But, what about me? Am I courageous as I follow God’s calling on my life? Is He disclosing to me what is ahead so that I can prepare emotionally and spiritually?
Lord, as this day unfolds I really want to complete some projects and move the proverbial ‘ball down the field’. Give me insight and wisdom in each situation as well as the sensitivity to help others, while being courageous in anything that comes my way. I bless you for what You are doing. Oh I long for a simpler season ahead.
