Week 12, Day 1 Devotional

The Story of Us: Acts Chapter 21 - 22 (August 12 - August 18)

Day One:

In many respects, it is comical to think of Paul and his many encounters with the Jewish people. It seems as if he is almost constantly on the run after preaching in the synagogues. At first glance, it may even appear that Paul is a coward. Chapter 21 reveals that this certainly is not the case. While staying in Caesarea on his way to Jerusalem, a prophet named Agabus tells Paul that something bad will happen to him if he goes to Jerusalem. Despite pleas to change plans Paul does something astounding. He says that he is not only willing to go to jail but also to die for Christ in Jerusalem! Paul proclaims obedience even to death!

This prompted me to ask a question I try to ask myself periodically. Would I be willing to be obedient to Christ even unto death? It is a humbling question and the ultimate heart check. I say this because it reveals to you what your greatest treasure is and whether you truly believe what you say you believe. Do you truly believe that Christ is the best thing you can have? Are you only willing to follow Christ when things are easy? Do you want your will or God’s will to be done in your life? Paul certainly believed that Jesus was so beautiful that He was worth dying for (he was beheaded). Do you? Go with God and be at peace.

-Kyle Bogner