Overcoming Fear: Paul’s Journey

Acts 23:11 – an incredible verse!

“The following night the Lord STOOD NEAR Paul and said, “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.”

The Lord stood near. 

That first line gets me. 

Context:

Paul had been through an enormous amount of persecution (yes, he had been a persecutor, but God turned his life around). Paul was headed to Rome and the trials that he would face there were almost unbearable. 

His friends had pleaded with him not to go to Jerusalem because of the persecution he would face, but he calmly stood by what God had instructed him to do. He remained focused. His goal was to tell of the saving grace he had received himself.

Now he was headed to Rome to face even more persecution and possible death, again with one focus – give his testimony of God’s grace. 

The night before, Paul was to do as God had instructed him; something happened. The night that would overwhelm any human being – bringing discouragement, fear, and anxiety…. that’s the night when I can hear God say, “Okay – I’m headed down to Paul and standing as close as I can get because he needs me.”

God didn’t change his instruction to Paul – it would still be tough. God didn’t change the people’s hearts and intent to kill Paul – he was eventually (most likely)executed for his faith. But amid the mess, the fear, the chaos, Paul obeyed, and God was there. 

I can hear God telling Paul, “Take courage. You followed the first step of my instruction, and now keep going because I’m right here with you. Your testimony is powerful, and I want them to see me through you.” 

Have you ever been there? Scared to follow God’s instructions because you will have to put yourself out there, giving up safety and comfort, only to follow through on the instructions that God has given you to do?

God is there. 

And He didn’t just stand WITH Paul – he stood NEAR Paul. 

Stand courageously because the Creator of the Universe stands near you.