Stand faithful in difficult times
In Acts 25, what stands out is Paul’s unwavering faith and dedication to the Lord Jesus. Despite being unfairly imprisoned for two years, without a trial, his faith never wavered.
When Paul was finally presented to Festus, he declared in Acts 25:11(NJKV) “For if I am an offender, or have committed anything deserving of death, I do not object to dying; but if there is nothing in these things of which these men accuse me, no one can deliver me to them.” Paul was ready to be responsible for his deeds and had full trust that the Lord would defend him.
Three key takeaways from this account are:
- Paul’s Faith: No matter the situation, Paul’s trust in God never faltered. His eyes were fixed on Jesus, not on his surroundings. Even in the toughest times, Paul saw it as a privilege to serve Jesus. As he writes in Philippians 4:11-13(AMP) Not that I speak from [any personal] need, for I have learned to be content [and self-sufficient through Christ, satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or uneasy] regardless of my circumstances. I know how to get along and live humbly [in difficult times], and I also know how to enjoy abundance and live in prosperity. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret [of facing life], whether well-fed or going hungry, whether having an abundance or being in need. I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose—I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.]
- Paul’s Accountability: Paul was well aware of the repercussions of his actions. Despite knowing he might be prosecuted for proclaiming Jesus as the way and the truth, he stood his ground and accepted full responsibility. This conviction is evident in Romans 1:16(AMP) where he says: I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation [from His wrath and punishment] to everyone who believes [in Christ as Savior], to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
- Paul’s Trust in the Lord: Paul knew he could rely on the Lord. He believed that God would always be his guiding force during tough times. This trust is echoed in 2 Timothy 3 where Paul recounts his sufferings, the challenges of evil doers, and the faithfulness required of Believers. 2 Timothy 3:10-15(NLT) But you, Timothy, certainly know what I teach, and how I live, and what my purpose in life is. You know my faith, my patience, my love, and my endurance. You know how much persecution and suffering I have endured. You know all about how I was persecuted in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra—but the Lord rescued me from all of it. Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. But evil people and impostors will flourish. They will deceive others and will themselves be deceived. But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus.
In conclusion, as Paul confidently states in Philippians 4:13(AMPC) I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency].
We too can draw from this strength in our moments of difficulty.