Trials Bring Opportunity

Today’s Through the Bible Reading: Acts 25:23-28:10

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials James 1:2

Talk about trials! Paul knew a thing or two about hard circumstances. Paul’s legal fiasco, that began in Jerusalem, led him to the Sanhedrin and then eventually to Rome. Along the way  he encountered conspiracies to kill him (Acts 25:2, 3); unfounded accusations (Acts 25:6, 7); underwent multiple interrogations and trials (Acts 25:22-25); as a prisoner he was sent on a ship to Italy (Acts 27:1); found himself ship wrecked (Acts 27:15-25); and landed in a place he never intended to be – on the island of Melita (Acts 28). There he was bit by a venomous snake (Acts 28:3); accused of being a murderer (Acts 28:4); and then esteemed to be a god (Acts 28:6). Finally in Italy, Paul was put under house arrest and chained to rotating guards.

For insight into what Paul was thinking during this time, read the letters he wrote while in prison – Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.

Paul did not fail to redeem the above situations. He preached the gospel, shared his testimony (Acts 26); saved lives in the midst of a storm (Acts 27:42-44); took the gospel to the Island of Melita (Acts 28); was an example of God’s power; (Acts 28:5, 6); prayed for the sick and they were healed (Acts 28:8, 9); and shared the gospel with all those soldiers he was chained to (Phil. 4:22).

The extreme trials Paul faced brought extraordinary opportunity. Because of Paul’s situations, despite their difficulty, God used them. Paul saw lives changed, people healed, and the gospel spread.  Even Agrippa responded to Paul’s testimony saying, “Almost thou persuade me to be a Christian” (Acts 26:28). So whatever situation you find yourself in today – remember…

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

by Sharon Kaselonis / All rights reserved ©