READING: 2 Samuel 1-2; 1 Chronicles 11; Psalm 96, 106; Acts 21
The prophet Agabus had warned Paul that enemies in Jerusalem would bind him and deliver him up if he, in fact, went to the Holy City. Others had already cautioned him not to go to Jerusalem, and now his friends and the locals pleaded with him not to go. Apparently, their pleadings were marked with tears.
Here’s where Paul’s response is most convicting: “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus” (Acts 21:13). You see, it’s one thing to say you’re ready to die for Jesus as long as the noose is not already around your neck; it’s another matter, I suspect, when you know that death is an imminent reality. Paul knew the latter, and yet he was ready to die for his Lord who had died for him. He wanted only that the name of Jesus be magnified.
That’s a faith that exceeds mine. It’s also a faith I read about among believers around the world whose faith costs them much more than mine currently costs me. I have little room to complain if my Christianity costs me a few friendships, a few dollars, and a few personal plans. I pray today that God would make me willing to give everything—including my life—for Christ.
PRAYER: “God, make me willing to follow You wherever You lead – no matter what it costs.”
TOMORROW’S READING: 2 Samuel 3-5; 1 Chronicles 12; Psalm 122; Acts 22