Acts 23:16, 22
16But when the son of Paul's sister heard of this plot, he went into the barracks and told Paul.
22The commander dismissed the young man and cautioned him, "Don't tell anyone that you have reported this to me."
Three main characters were involved in this little story: Paul, the guy flogged; Paul's nephew, the guy who heard the conspiracy of the Jews against Paul; and the commander, the guy who "saved" Paul's life. Paul remained unscared of the things that were happening to him. Though he knew crazy things, like dying, could be just around the corner for him, there was no account of him worrying. In fact, verse 11 says that the Lord gave him assurance and encouragement to take courage. Paul's nephew could have chosen not to tell Paul about the plot because of the risk that he's taking. He could also could've gotten killed if the Jews found out. But, he still did what was right even if it involved his life to save another. The commander heeded to what was right. He knew nothing was of what the people were accusing Paul was true. He stood by what was righteous and not by what the crowd were saying. He just didn't go with the flow but rather did what was right. It doesn't matter what people say about us, or if we could get in trouble/killed by standing for what is right. In times of injustice or persecution, God's word will still say to us "TAKE COURAGE!" Let's live a life of courage - not timid or embarassed or weak in doing what is right. When we know we are in the right, stand by it and God will never leave you!
Whether I will experience being Paul (persecuted) or Paul's nephew (the messenger) or the commander (didn't go with the flow), I will make sure that I am doing what is right in the eyes of God. Doesn't matter what people say about me or if I get killed or troubled by what I do for God. I will not retaliate and I will not go with the flow if I know I am in the right.
Lord, please help me to stand firm in times when I feel i can't stand on my ground. I am your follower and I will do everything to give glory to your name! None of me, all of you! It's all about you Jesus! Amen.
