Real Hope: Acts (A Study of Acts 18 -23)Sample

Acts 23

As a father, I get the privilege of bedtime prayers with my two young kids. It’s often highlighted to me that they need prayer modelled to them … especially when I hear lines like, "God, please let us all have a good day and a good life, and no Bad Stuff happen to any of us." Often later in life we have to undo or deconstruct unhelpful views of God we picked up along the way as kids. While God is our protector and provider in many ways, the Bible reveals to us that Bad Stuff happens to each of us. We see many examples of the saints and heroes of the Bible embracing a courageous faith in the midst of adversity and coming through the other side transformed and sometimes stronger because they faced struggles. It’s hard not to be inspired by Paul in Acts 23. He is opposed by a powerful religious council called the Sanhedrin. Some liked what he preached; some hated him for it. Eventually the Romans stepped in to protect Paul from zealous Jews who would have killed him.

Despite the opposition he faces, Paul remains committed to his mission of spreading the Gospel message to both Jews and Gentiles. His courage and determination inspire others to follow his example and continue the work of the early church.

When we face hard times, may we be reminded that God is with us. God offers guidance, comfort, wisdom, and peace—all of which are gifts to us so we can endure hardship, not avoid it—all of which build courage within us to hold firm and even flourish in the face of challenging situations. May we find the strength to confront our fears, embrace God’s faithful presence, and even flourish when the Bad Stuff happens.

Written by TIM BAIN