Authors: Gerard and Bernie Robinson, from Charis in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
In the book of Acts it says, “For this very night there stood by me an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I worship, and he said, “Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar; and lo, God has granted you all those who sail with you.” (Acts 27:23-24)
Paul, along with other prisoners, was being shipped to Rome by the Roman Centurion Julius and his troops. A severe storm caused panic and loss of hope among everyone, including Paul. But an angel appeared to him and told him that they would all be saved, as God’s plan was for Paul to bring the gospel message to Caesar and Rome. And so, after being shipwrecked at Malta and being delayed, he finally arrived in Rome. Paul was placed under house arrest but was still granted just enough freedom to preach the gospel. So through all the seemingly negative things that happened to Paul, God finally brought the good news of Christ to Rome, the very centre of the Roman Empire.
In this scripture Paul refers to “the God to whom I belong” and the plan that God had for Paul’s life. We also belong to God and He has a plan for each of our lives. It is only when we know Him to whom we belong, that we can discern His plan for our lives. With our cooperation, God will achieve what He wants to, in and through us. Reflect today on what it means to you to belong to God. Prayerfully surrender your life more fully to Him and ask for clarity on the next little step you need to take in following His plan for your life. And like Paul in this passage, hear God speak to you about your future, “Do not be afraid.”
What challenging things are going on in your life today? Ask God for the grace to see beyond them to the bigger picture of who you are in Christ and where He is leading you. Ask for the gifts of thankfulness and joy in all your circumstances.
Scripture quotations from Common Bible: Revised Standard Version of the Bible, ©1973, and Ignatius Edition of the Revised Standard Version of the Bible, ©2006, by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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