Week 7, Day 1 (Acts 21:1-26)

Many times our greatest personal challenges can turn into great kingdom opportunities and stepping stones into what God has destined for us. Paul knew that this trip to Jerusalem would bring trouble. He had to tear himself away from friends who feared they would never see him again.  He later gets a prophetic word that he will be locked up and turned over to a rowdy Gentile mob. Notice here that Agabus’ word (v.11) was not prohibiting Paul from going into danger, but was preparing him for what was to come when he arrived in Jerusalem. Paul’s eternal kingdom perspective (to die is gain) must have helped overcome the fear of not completing all that God had for him. He also knew ahead of time, as Nathan pointed out, that he was on assignment and this was not going to be easy (Luke 21:12-13). I personally think its fine to ask God to confirm important matters multiple times… I sure need it.

Perhaps my favorite parts of Paul’s adventures in Acts are the RED letters. Just check out how close Jesus stayed to Paul during his journeys. These are some of the recorded ones:

18:1 One night the Lord spoke to me in a vision: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you…”

22:18 I fell into a trance and saw the Lord speaking; “Quick, leave…”

22:21 Then the Lord said to me, “Go…”

23:11 The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said: “Go…”

Like Paul, I have found that my most difficult times have been the closest times with the Lord and the times of greatest direction.

-Chris Burns