Doing The Will Of God
When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, “The Lord’s will be done.”
Acts 21: 12-14, NIV
The Holy Spirit already revealed to Paul that he will experience suffering in Jerusalem. This is the reason why the other disciples pleaded him not to go there. But even though it breaks Paul’s heart to see them weep, still he insisted to do what the Lord wants. He was ready to die in Jerusalem in the name of the Lord Jesus.
Imagine the pain that Paul experienced at this point of time. This is a heartbreaking moment knowing that his closest friends were weeping for him. But then, Paul focused not on the possible suffering that he will experience, but on the will of God in his life.
He was not driven by fear, but by faith. He willingly offered His life for Jesus even if it meant that He would die. He was always ready to serve and honor Him no matter what it takes.
When we follow God’s will in our lives, there will be times when we will experience what Paul went through. The Holy Spirit will present to us the painful realities of life, and we always have a choice. We may choose to give up or keep our faith. We can question God or follow His will.
But let’s pray for a heart like Paul who’s willing to offer his life for Jesus. May we choose to follow His will despite the suffering that we will experience.
Prayer: Father God, thank you so much for reminding me to keep my faith despite all the hardships. I pray for your love to consume my heart so that I may be able to do what’s right in your eyes. I pray for your peace, especially when I face the harsh realities of life. Teach me how to trust and abide in your ways and lead me to the light. So that I may be able to honor and please you, this, I ask and pray, in Jesus’ name, amen.
