Acts 23
March 8, 2022
“The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, ‘Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.’” (v11)
The “we” language of the Acts narrative stops when Paul and his team arrive in Jerusalem (21:17-18), highlighting how Paul is now seemingly all alone - following in Jesus’ footsteps - to a destination of suffering in Jerusalem. But here we find out that, although there are no human companions, Paul is not alone! Jesus is “standing near Paul” (v11) - encouraging him and reminding him that he will get to Rome - just as He promised!
Father, thank You - that because of what You did for me in Christ - I’m never alone - even when I feel alone. Because Jesus was forsaken (Mark 15:34) - taking my sins upon Himself - I will never be forsaken. Hallelujah! Even in my darkest days, You are with me. Even on this day, which has in it some challenges I’m not looking forward to - remind me that, in Christ, You are “standing near me,” so that I face this day with courage, peace, joy, and a deep trust in Your care for me.
— Pastor Joshua Brooks
Use the following steps to guide your daily time with the Lord…
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Start with prayer. Ask God to open your heart to help you understand and receive His Word.
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Read and observe the passage carefully. As needed, read a second Bible version to help with understanding.
➡️ What does it say?
What does this passage teach me about God? What does it say about my sinful nature and my need for God’s grace? How does this passage point to Jesus?
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➡️ What am I going to do about it?
Does this passage include a promise to claim, an action/attitude to avoid/embrace, or a principle to apply? How can this truth apply to my life? What could my next step be? How can I share this with others? Is there a verse or section of Scripture I need to memorize?
