FRIDAY JUNE 3, 2022
PASSION FOR THE THINGS OF GOD – COME WHAT MAY
Scripture References: Acts 21:10-15; 30-33; Ephesians 6:19-20.
Exposition:
Today, we will look at how Apostle Paul dared to take risk at the peril of his life because of the love and passion he had for God. In his farewell speech to the elders of the Church in Ephesus, he said “And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me” (Acts 20:20-21).
This prophecy was confirmed again at Tyre in the house of Philip the Evangelist in Caesarea (Acts 21:4); a prophet named Agabus took Paul’s belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said the owner of this belt is going to Jerusalem, he will be bound hand and feet and handed over to the Gentiles.
When the believers in Caesarea heard this, they pleaded with him in tears not to go up to Jerusalem, but he declined their plea and moved on because of the willingness and passion he had to preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ to the Jewish community no matter the cost. In Acts 21:30-33, it came to pass that Paul was truly apprehended, flogged and kept in prison for a while just as Prophet Agabus said, but he had the audience he wanted to address the people in Aramaic with the Gospel of our Lord Jesus (Acts 21:40). He was full of energy and passion to share his new found faith in Jesus in spite of the looming danger.
Precious one, no matter what comes our way, we must follow our passion for God and continue to push until His purpose is firmly established in and around us. Never be discouraged even if you face hardship and persecution. Passion will always drive us into action – move on! The end will certainly yield good results.
Prayer Guide: Oh God grant me the Spirit of boldness, passion and love to defend your course until dying souls are rescued from the claws of the Devil.
Memory Verse For This Week:
Romans 12:11 (NIV) – “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord.”