We are not Exempted

When Peter and John continued to preach the gospel after Jesus’ resurrection, the early church received the anointing of the Holy Spirit. They witnessed a lot of miracles. Their numbers increased, and they were given the chance to tangibly feel God’s presence. The glory of God was so evident. Even the apostles received supernatural boldness and strength to preach the gospel.

But despite God’s presence, the apostles were still arrested and put in public jail. There were people who found their message disturbing. They were jealous, maybe because of the respect that the apostle had received from so many people. Even though God had already moved in miraculous ways, bad things still happened to His followers.

Sometimes, we think that when God pours out His Spirit, everything will be perfect. There will be no hindrance or any negative things that would happen. We have expectations that God would smoothly move. But according to what the apostles experienced, it’s not what happened. Even though the presence of God was with them, they still went through suffering to preach the gospel.

It wasn’t a smooth journey for them. Imagine, they were arrested and threatened. It wasn’t an easy journey for them. Still, they continue to do what is right in the eyes of God. They preached the gospel and followed what Jesus instructed. They never allowed the negative things to stop them. In fact, despite what they experienced, God sent His angel to rescue and help them (Acts 5:19). He was still there, even in suffering.

This verse is a powerful reminder for all of us to expect challenges and suffering even if God’s presence is already moving. Just because God’s anointing is present doesn’t mean things will be smooth and easy. We are not exempted. Even Jesus went through the pain of the cross despite the presence of the Holy Spirit in His life. He still received threats and painful words from others.

Just like the apostles and what Jesus did, let’s continue to do what’s right in the eyes of God, even in the midst of the storms. Let’s not focus on the suffering and pain; instead, let’s fix our gaze on Jesus. The One who conquered everything. Surely, He will give us the grace to finish the race.

Prayer: Father God, you are good and amazing. Thank you for giving me the chance to experience your presence. When I can’t seem to understand the things that are going on in my life, please remind me to stand firm and stay rooted in your love. Please give me the courage to follow your word. Please teach me how to trust in your ways, especially in moments when I can’t understand it. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.