Acts 26:28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?”
Today’s scripture is a reminder that God can use all things, that God can bring beauty from ashes. Agrippa remarks what a shame it is that Paul appealed to Caesar, for he could have been set free otherwise. Except that by appealing to Caesar, Paul has avoided at least two assassination plots and been able to share the Good News with two kings.
Acts 26:29 Paul replied, “Short time or long—I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.”
This year’s transition from summer to new school year has been tremendously, frustratingly difficult for me. There’s not enough time, there’s so much stress and overwhelm. It’s a real shame…. Except that I know God is here, that He’s working in all of this. I know I’m making connections with students, providing hope and encouragement, I know He can use all of my stress, frustration, and overwhelm, that He can and is and will bring beauty from these ashes.
Acts 26:30-31 The king rose, and with him the governor and Bernice and those sitting with them. After they left the room, they began saying to one another, “This man is not doing anything that deserves death or imprisonment.”
Lord, Thank You for the perspective in today’s scripture. Thank You that nothing done for You is in vain. Thank You that You have a plan and a purpose for my life, that You uniquely equipped me and called me for that purpose. Thank You that You are with me. Always. Even in the struggle. Amen.
Acts 26:32 Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.”
Have a blessed day.