Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
February 18, 2023: SOAP #4825: Numbers 3-4; Acts 25

SCRIPTURE:  Acts (NIV) 25:9 Festus, wishing to do the Jews a favor, said to Paul, “Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and stand trial before me there on these charges?” 10  Paul answered: “I am now standing before Caesar’s court, where I ought to be tried. I have not done any wrong to the Jews, as you yourself know very well. 11 If, however, I am guilty of doing anything deserving death, I do not refuse to die. But if the charges brought against me by these Jews are not true, no-one has the right to hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar!”

OBSERVATION:  The Romans had taken him prisoner to protect him from the Jews who were trying to kill him.  But Paul had a very important Visitor the night following his arrest.  Acts 23:11: And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, “Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.” 

I wonder if Paul stayed awake that night thinking of how he might get to Rome.  Should he send out an appeal letter asking for money to use for such a trip.  Who would accompany him and how much would it cost for their travel?  Many questions could have caused Paul a sleepless night.  BUT GOD already had a plan. 

In a few days, Paul was forced to appeal to Caesar’s court.  With that appeal, Rome became responsible for Paul’s passage to see Caesar!  Rome provided the transportation; Rome provided the food; Rome even provided escorts (Roman guards) to ensure Paul’s safe arrival.  What a God we serve!!! 

APPLICATION: God is willing to take the responsibility of providing whatever is needed for us to do His will!   God has unlimited resources, far greater than our limited resources! 

PRAYER:   Heavenly Father, you are the GREAT ENABLER!  You enable me to do what You give me to do.  When I know I have heard from you and that I am doing your will, I can trust you.  Amen.

Pastor Leon
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