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It is next to impossible for us to fully understand or comprehend the timeline God uses to respond or move his people. It goes beyond what we can see with our earthly eyes, and the purpose for His timing is not always to be seen this side of eternity.

Paul, in the book of Acts, chapter 23 has been arrested and taken into custody of the Roman guard. The Jewish leaders are trying to kill him. They are falsifying information in a desperate attempt to silence him. Paul has heard, once again, that his life is in danger due to an assassination plot made against him. Can you imagine his discouragement? His fear? His questioning if this is really what God has in store for him? Death now? In this way?

And God, seeing Paul and all that is going on, shows up on the scene. “That night the LORD appeared to Paul and said, “Be encouraged, Paul. Just as you have been a witness to me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome as well.” (Acts 23:11)

God revealed a bit more of his plan to Paul. God is reminding Paul that He sees. He knows. He is still with him. God is telling Paul that He still has more work for him to do. This is not the end. Not even close.

While Paul remains imprisoned physically, Paul is freed spiritually. His fears can be put aside. His God has a plan that has not yet been fulfilled yet. Paul’s sense of purpose and peace has been renewed.

Paul, who was not afraid to call a spade a spade, is more ready than ever to share the Good News about Jesus Christ with anyone and everyone God brings across his path.

Paul speaks boldly. Unafraid. “Now I am on trial because of my hope in the fulfillment of God’s promise made to our ancestors. In fact, that is why the twelve tribes of Israel zealously worship God night and day, and they share the same hope I have. Yet, Your Majesty (even having an audience with Kings and their courts!), they accuse me for having this hope! Why does it seem incredible to any of you that God can raise the dead?” (Acts 26:6-8)

For more than 2 years Paul is sitting imprisoned in Herod’s fortress in Caesarea. All the while, still preaching and talking about Jesus. Paul is brought out, sort of like the fortress entertainment whenever someone new comes to town. Perhaps the intent was mockery, perhaps curiosity, or a mix of the two… Yet, Paul does not stop. He speaks to anyone who will listen.

Paul knew his purpose. He understood why God was keeping him alive. “But God has protected me right up to this present time so I can testify to everyone, from the least to the greatest. I teach nothing except what the prophets and Moses said would happen – that the Messiah would suffer and be the first to rise from the dead, and in this way announce God’s light to Jews and Gentiles alike.” (Acts 26:22-23)

Paul put aside his fear. He made God his focus. Not man. Paul made a decision that not only did all people matter – all people deserved to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ. He knew that if they heard and accepted the message – they would be saved. They too would belong to the family of God.

Paul gave up his earthly freedom for a eternal cause.

Friend, too often we allow fear to dictate how and where we share the Good News about Jesus. We worry about what others may think of us – or how they will respond or treat us. We have forgotten our purpose. May Paul’s example of God’s provision and presence be an encouragement for us to be emboldened to proclaim the Good News. Eternity is found in no other.

Blessings!