Take courage…
Intrigue….two men needed courage in Acts 23…Paul was spoken to directly from the Lord…
“ The following night the Lord stood by him and said, “Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome.”
Acts.23.11
But, also, his nephew could’ve needed some courage to enter the barracks, speak to Paul, the prisoner…then speak to the centurion…finally to the tribune…and to do the right thing…
Now the son of Paul's sister heard of their ambush, so he went and entered the barracks and told Paul. Paul called one of the centurions and said, “Take this young man to the tribune, for he has something to tell him.” So he took him and brought him to the tribune and said, “Paul the prisoner called me and asked me to bring this young man to you, as he has something to say to you.” The tribune took him by the hand, and going aside asked him privately, “What is it that you have to tell me?” And he said, “The Jews have agreed to ask you to bring Paul down to the council tomorrow, as though they were going to inquire somewhat more closely about him. But do not be persuaded by them, for more than forty of their men are lying in ambush for him, who have bound themselves by an oath neither to eat nor drink till they have killed him. And now they are ready, waiting for your consent.” So the tribune dismissed the young man, charging him, “Tell no one that you have informed me of these things.”
Acts.23.16-22
Paul was so well educated, did he think of David’s words in the Psalms? They are so fitting…
Teach me your way, O Lord,and lead me on a level path because of my enemies.
Give me not up to the will of my adversaries;for false witnesses have risen against me,and they breathe out violence.
I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!
Wait for the Lord;be strong, and let your heart take courage;wait for the Lord!
Ps.27.11-14
Love the Lord, all you his saints!The Lord preserves the faithful but abundantly repays the one who acts in pride.
Be strong, and let your heart take courage,all you who wait for the Lord!
Ps.31.23-24
Thank YOU…
Your words were fitting for Paul and just as fitting for us today…when we face adversaries….
But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.”
And all Judah rejoiced over the oath, for they had sworn with all their heart and had sought him with their whole desire, and he was found by them, and the Lord gave them rest all around.
2Chr.15.7, 15
Speak Jesus…
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