Trust That God Is in Control.Sample

God Works All Things for Good

By Rev. Ed Fredrich

Paul was the Lord’s designated messenger to bring the Gospel to Philippi. As he and Silas were going about their work of serving the Lord, a slave girl with the ability of fortune telling followed them around crying out, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who are proclaiming to you the way to be saved.” (Acts 16:17) Paul, annoyed that their work was being hindered, commanded the evil spirit to leave her. Her slave masters, angry that their source of income was gone, had authorities beat and throw Paul and Silas in prison. Paul could have written our verse then. They were doing the Lord’s work yet looked what happened. Yes, they were in jail, but that night was going to be a night that the jailer and his household would never forget. It was the beginning of new lives for them. The slave girl was right!

Now Paul was imprisoned again. Humanly speaking, it didn’t seem to make sense to have one of the most effective witnesses of the Gospel in jail. It looked like this was going to adversely affect the Kingdom work. But look what happened. Paul now had the opportunity to witness to people whom he would have never have had the opportunity before. His prison guards were part of Caesar’s palace guard. Not only that but also Paul had the opportunity to write additional books of the New Testament: Ephesians, Colossians, 1 Timothy, and Philemon.

It is always important to remember that there are no accidents with God. He is always the One in charge. He is also busy working all things for the good of his Church. That is exactly Jesus’s role as he remains seated at the right hand of the Father. Yes, there are times when we wonder and question, but we always need to remember God’s will. He wants everyone to know Jesus. As his family, we are privileged to be part of his plan.

Prayer: Lord, we are tempted to think that at times, you are not concerned about what is going on in this world and in our lives. Thanks for giving us moments like the one you gave Paul to see that the Gospel is not being stopped. Enable us to be faithful to the calling that you have given us. Amen.