A LIFE WORTH NOTHING
- DAY 340
- FEAR FILE: APOSTLE PAUL
- SCRIPTURES: ACTS 20:17-38
“And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”
Acts 20:22-24 NKJV
How much do you love Jesus? What is your life worth about your love for Him? How devoted are you to the gospel? How willing are you to do His will no matter the cost? I ask myself these questions almost every time I read courageous accounts like that of Paul in our text today.
Here, Paul is giving a farewell speech to the elders of the Elders of Ephesus. He needed to equip them to lead right, stand in the faith, and protect the flock in their care. This was necessary because he would not see them again and he tells them why. Because he is heading to Jerusalem, where he is certain that chains await him.
One would think that if you see danger ahead, you will stay clear of that path, but not Paul. He knew that chains were part of his journey and he was willing to do the will of God no matter what it would cost him. Even if the cost was his freedom or his life. It goes without saying, this is only possible by faith and courage.
Believers around him pleaded with him not to go, even Agabus prophesied of what he would face if he should go to Jerusalem but his response was:
Now when we heard these things, both we and those from that place pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”-- Acts 21:12-13
Beloved, we won’t always have the luxury of standing for Christ without opposition. We won’t always be sent to pleasurable places. There are missionaries in parts of the world that are unreceptive to this faith, yet they go boldly and preach courageously, risking their lives. So many are in hostile working environments and industries that demand that their faith be kept aside, they lose opportunities, get passed over for promotions, and lose the better things of life because they chose God. So ask yourself, the questions you read at the beginning of today’s devotional. Because one day, it will not be a question, it will be reality.
Therefore pray, Father, give me the strength to stand for you. Lord, let my love for you be so great that nothing Will be more important to me than you, your gospel, and the work you have committed to me. In Jesus name, Amen
Shalom.
