Acts in 28 DaysSample

Acts 23: 1 – 23

Have you ever been in danger or afraid for your life? We live in a dangerous world. No matter where you live, from wars to common robbery, we hear stories about people losing their lives every day. You can see it in the news or maybe even in your own neighbourhood.

In Acts 23, we read about people who really wanted to kill Paul. They had a plan, they had the manpower, and they were so determined to kill him that they had even taken an oath! It seemed that Paul’s fate was sealed. However, God had other plans. The night before they put their plot into motion, God Himself had visited Paul to encourage him telling him that he still had to testify for Him in Rome. This must have been very reassuring for Paul; when God says something, it's a done deal! No evil plan could stop it.

God can use anyone and any circumstances to fulfil His will. When Paul's nephew catches wind of the plot, tips off Paul, and reports it to the Roman commander, God really shows off what he can do. There were about 40 men waiting to kill Paul. Instead, was escorted by a whopping 470 soldiers, cruising on a horse like he was in a victory parade! Paul got rockstar treatment and his enemies never had a chance to touch him.

No matter how dangerous our world is, you can rest assured that God’s got your back. His protection is like a shield over your life; nothing can mess up His plans for you. This doesn’t mean that you will never suffer, but if tough times roll in, God will be right there to comfort you, just like He was for Paul.

GO DEEP

Paul had God’s unlimited protection, but he could also say, “I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day” (v1). This doesn’t mean Paul was perfect, but he was living in a way that pleased God. How are you living? Can you say, like Paul, “I live with a clear conscience?”

BE BOLD

Do you know someone who is often afraid, worried, or anxious? Tell them about God’s protection for His children. Pray for them and encourage them to entrust their lives to the One who will take away their worries and give them unlimited care.

MEMORISE IT

“I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.” - Acts 23:1b