It's About Perspective

Have you ever felt like the worlds against you? Like the odds are not in your favor and you just can't catch a break. It never ceases to amaze me how powerful one negative comment / person can be. It can steal our energy, enthusiasm and dreams. We lose all focus of everything else and are unable to take another step in our journey, all because of one comment or a few people.

Over our last few staff devotions we have been reading through Acts 21 - 23. Paul has returned to Jerusalem only to experience what everyone had warned him about, opposition at every turn. While at the temple, a few Jew's from Asia turned the crowed against him. After addressing the crowed and boldly proclaiming the Gospel, Paul is forced to face the Sanhedrin and later discovers that there are 40 men who have taken a vow not to eat until Paul is dead. Talk about opposition! More than enough to steal any ones dreams.

However, the Lord reminds Paul that he is not alone and tells him to "Take Courage"! In other words, "Don't worry Paul, I've got your back!" Jesus goes on to show Paul that there are far more people supporting him than there are opposing him. The list of those that God has put in place to support Paul include: The Roman Commander, his nephew, 200 sounders and 70 horsemen and 200 spearmen. Now that's support!

The point is simple, it's all about perspective. You and I will face opposition as we strive to live for Jesus and take our next steps toward Christ. It might come in negative comments or a lack of support. But the Lord wants us to remember that "He's got our back!" The next time someone tries to steal your dreams take a look around, I'm certain that you have far more support than the few / the one that is opposing you. "Take Courage!" because Jesus has your back!

Confidently moving forward with you,

Bob