ESOCS Devotional 18 October
TEXT: ACTS 24:17-27 KJV
MEMORY VERSE: “Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom: but could find none occasion nor fault; for as much as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him.” Daniel 6:4 KJV
In our text today, some of the antagonistic Jews, who had followed Paul from city to city, looking for an occasion to fault him, saw him in the Temple in Jerusalem, and falsely accused him of bringing a Gentile into the temple. But the falsehood of their case was made manifest by their fear and inability to testify before a Roman official.
However, from our knowledge of scripture, Paul was not alone in this ordeal. Our Lord Jesus was severally falsely accused in order to have Him killed (John 11:45-50; 10:30-33). In Daniel Chapter 6:3-13, we see an occasion of political manoeuvring at its utmost in the Medo-Persian Empire, as well as jealousy in the hearts of wicked men who sought to destroy the righteous and faithful Daniel, who had become a serious threat to them. But the Bible would always ask, “Why do the heathen rage and people imagine a vain thing” (Psalm 2:1).
Read yesterday’s ESOCS Devotional here
What with Joseph? (Gen. 37:18–20). His brothers became so envious of the young man’s revealed future, and they treacherously dealt with him. But unknown to them, they only helped to actualize his dreams. So shall it be for you, if only you remain focused, and your hands untainted (Psalms 24:3-4).
CHALLENGES
- The Lord says in Isaiah 54:15, “Behold, they shall surely gather together …” in conspiracy and evil plots against the righteous. But there is a good news: “…whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake.” So why are you still afraid?
PRAYER POINT
- The Psalmist cried out in Psalm 12:1-2, “Help Lord, for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men. They speak vanity every one with his neighbour.” Lord Jesus, be thou my guard and guide in this world of antagonism and persecution.
FURTHER READING: Genesis 49:28-33; 2 Samuel 1:17-27; 1Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelation 22:1-7
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ESOCS Devotional 18 October
