Scripture:
25:8 Then Paul made his defense: “I have done nothing wrong against the Jewish law or against the temple or against Caesar.”
Observation:
Paul was brought before Festus, a new Roman leader, to have his case heard. Paul was falsely accused by the Jewish leaders of Jerusalem of all kinds of acts yet without any proof. Festus, while not religious, followed proper protocols and procedures in regards to Paul yet, as a politician, tried to appease everyone. While Paul’s accusers lied and had ulterior motives, Paul boldly spoke the truth even after years in captivity.
God will use believers and non-believers to further His kingdom. Festus was not a believer but God placed him in that role and he played a part of getting Paul to Rome, which was in God’s plan.
Application:
Paul stood up for himself. He was confident in his behavior and in his manner. He was using his Roman citizenship to his advantage. He was not going to let himself be put in an unfavorable position based on lies and untruths. I must have the boldness and confidence to speak up for what is right in God’s eyes. Too often, it is easier to sit quietly as others have louder voices. Paul gave us an example of standing for the truth.
Paul was incredibly patient. It had taken a long time to get to this point. Paul did not complain. He did not say he was being treated unfairly. Paul accepted his position and continued to provide his side of the truth and of the story. If Paul had tried to rush things or push things, it could have costed him his life. He would never had made it to Rome which is what God had told him was going to happen. Too often, I try to make things about me and my timing. I must always remember it is about God and His timing. I cannot rush things or make them happen based on my desires but should wait on God’s desires and God’s plan.
Prayer:
Grant me the patience to wait on God’s timing. Help me to remember it is about your plans and your kingdom and not mine. Give me the boldness to stand up for you even when in difficult situations.