Fuel for the Journey

Scripture:
Acts 23:11— “But on the night immediately following, the Lord stood at his side and said, ‘Take courage; for as you have solemnly witnessed to My cause at Jerusalem, so you must witness at Rome also.’”
 
Observation:
Paul was in the midst of a great fight centered on theology and politics. He had set off such a volatile spark with his witness for Jesus that a Roman commander actually thought Paul would be torn to pieces by an angry mob. Right here, in the midst of violence and chaos, the Lord comes to Paul and comforts Paul with the power of promise and providence. The Lord’s message is a heavy one—Paul would be called upon to spread the message of Jesus to the heart of the Roman Empire. He could take courage because Jesus Himself had promised him that his life wouldn’t end here at this skirmish. There were other battles ahead.
 
Application:
The power of promise and providence is truly the fuel for my Christian journey. I can’t see my destination, but I know it’s the best possible place for me. I also know my path is directed by an amazing Savior who will empower me all along the way. I love the personal touch we see from Jesus in this passage. He came to Paul Himself to comfort Him, point His vision past His circumstances, and empower Him with a mission. I praise the Lord today that Jesus is personal with me too. He truly cares enough to take my fears away, put His love in my heart, and provide me with a Bible full of incredible promises that strengthen me and point my eyes toward eternity. I must remember this when life circumstances get out of my control. I can cling to God’s promises and know that my personal Savior has more battles for me to fight.
 
Prayer:
Lord, give me long vision today. Be right by my side and encourage me through my temporary struggles so that I can see the bigger picture. Thank You for Your amazing promises in scripture. Bury them deep in me heart so that they trigger automatically in my mind in the midst of the struggle.

— Curt Hale, children’s pastor