Here is a phrase you will never hear me say -- "It was just a
coincidence." Did Paul's nephew "just happen" to hear of the conspiracy
to ambush Paul and kill him? I don't think so. God had the right person
in the right place at the right time.
This brings to my mind our recent flat tire. It didn't happen as we
drove from Eau Claire to LaCrosse. It didn't happen as we drove from
LaCrosse, later in the week, to Mauston. But the tire had been damaged.
It went flat while the car sat in my brother-in-law's driveway in
Mauston. Sturdy relatives were there, cheerful and persistent as they
changed the tire for us. I praise God for His protection and provision.
I try to put into practice Proverbs 3:5, 6 - "Trust in the Lord with
all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways
acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths." Acknowledge Him. I
make it a point to give Him the credit.
Now, back to Paul. He was eager for the opportunity to visit his
Christian brothers and sisters in Rome. Did he know that when he did
so, he would be in chains?
The Holy Spirit had been guiding Paul as he made his various journeys.
Sometimes His leading meant a change of plans (e.g. Acts 16:6-10).
Sometimes the Lord encouraged Paul to remain where he was (Acts
18:9-11). Oh, that we all might likewise be attuned to our Master's
voice. Yes, and that we would hear His words, "Don't be afraid" in our
times of distress. It seems that He nudges us when we need to move,
quiets us when He wants us still, guides our thoughts in new
directions. Usually one step at a time. And if we miss His guidance, He
gives us another chance.
Go back with me to Acts 21:10-14. Agabus prophesied what would happen
to Paul if he continued on to Jerusalem. All the believers begged Paul
not to go. Something similar had happened at Tyre (Acts 21:4-6). Have
you ever been convinced in your spirit that God wanted you to take a
certain step, and then have those you love try to dissuade you? It can
tear you apart. It can tear families apart.
So Paul arrives in Jerusalem. The crowds become violent. Paul is now
the target of assassins. But the Lord has told him (23:11), "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." And preach
in Rome he did.
Being in chains didn't mean he was no longer useful to God. Paul was
the right person, in the right place, at the right time.
Deetje Wildes
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