Resting in the Hands of God

Acts 24: 24-27

“24 Some days later when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish, he sent for Paul and heard him speak concerning faith in Christ Jesus. 25 And as he discussed justice, self-control, and the coming judgment, Felix became frightened and said, “Go away for the present; when I have an opportunity, I will send for you.” 26 At the same time he hoped that money would be given him by Paul, and for that reason he used to send for him very often and converse with him. 27 After two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus; and since he wanted to grant the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul in prison.”

Felix kept Paul in prison hoping Paul would give him a bribe for his release.  Festus kept Paul in prison in order to please the High Priest, elders, and those of the Sanhedrin.

Forces beyond Paul’s control kept him in prison.  Paul later wrote “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12).  

At times, we may feel that the world is against us and that our lives are being affected by forces beyond our control.  But in these dark times remember Paul who wrote letters to his churches, sent messages of encouragement, and was as witness of his faith and hope in Christ to any who visited him or spoke to him during his time of confinement.

We may feel that our lives are out of our control…but they always rest in the hands of God.

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)