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II Kings 8:1-9:13, Acts16:16-40, Psalm 143:1-12, Proverbs 17:26
“A mob was quickly formed against Paul and Silas, and the judges ordered them stripped and beaten with wooden whips. Again, and again the rods slashed down across their bared backs; and afterwards they were thrown into prison. The jailer was threatened with death if they escaped…Trembling with fear, the jailer called for lights and ran to the dungeon and fell down before Paul and Silas. He brought them out and begged them, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’ They replied, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, and your entire household.'” Acts 16:22-24, 29-30
It all started with an annoying little girl. She bothered Paul; Paul eventually commanded the demon to leave her. She lost her ability to make money for her owners. They got upset and turned the town against Paul and Silas. Then we have our scripture. In the midst of their physical pain and confinement, these guys strike up worship, worship so powerful that chains fall off and prison doors open! So, when he sees all of the prisoners are still there, the jailer brings Paul and Silas into his home to speak with his family. He cleans up their wounds, feeds them and the whole family is converted to Christ.
When I read this, I think, what if they endured all of that just to be positioned to win this family for Jesus? I think about their clothing sticking to the open wounds on their bodies. Cry, moan – no, sing. Loved on God till the bonds fell off of not only them, but all of the prisoners. How many of the inmates were affected? Says they were all listening and none of them ran away. How many people came to God in this uncomfortable, painful situation? And what would be my reaction if I were the person beaten and imprisoned? Would today’s Christian judge me for being incarcerated? Just some things I’m thinking about. I’m trying to gauge my heart and my thought process toward hard injustice and still standing for God despite it.
PRAYER: Lord, what an encouraging story. I am always amazed at the hardships Paul faced yet he still kept his eyes on the prize of knowing You and making You known. Help all of us who represent You to do it well, to look for opportunities in every situation and to trust that You are ordering our steps and all is well. Help me to see Your face no matter where I find myself. Love You Jesus, amen.
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