Have you heard the saying: “No good deed, goes unpunished”? Its a funny saying that is often true. Sometimes in life we are following the will of God, or doing something really good, but not everyone is pleased. Some are threatened, some are jealous, and some are ignorant. That’s what was happening with the apostles. They were meeting the deep needs of people by the power of God and many rejoiced. But, those in powerful societal roles were jealous. They responded by punishing the very people who were doing good deeds. In the end those apostles took their lashes and rejoiced that they were found worthy of suffering for the name of Christ. Now, that’s a great attitude. We can do the same when misjudged and punished for the good we are doing. Determine ahead of time to take the lashes and move on. Paul reminded us as believers “Let’s not become discouraged in doing good, for in due time we will reap, if we do not become weary.” Galatians 6:9 NASB
The people from the cities in the vicinity of Jerusalem were coming together as well, bringing people who were sick or tormented with unclean spirits, and they were all being healed. But the high priest stood up, along with all his associates (that is the sect of the Sadducees), and they were filled with jealousy. They laid hands on the apostles and put them in a public prison. Acts 5:16-18 NASB
What good deeds has God called me to today? Am I still afraid of what man can do to me? Why?
God, as this day begins- I praise You for the many blessings in my life and the opportunity to do good. I will place before You those who would punish the good deeds done in Jesus name. May You deal with them, as I deal with You alone. You are my Sovereign and King. Now, let’s go do some good, no matter what!
