“PAUL WANTED TO APPEAR BEFORE THE CROWD, BUT THE DISCIPLES WOULD NOT LET HIM.” —ACTS 19:30, NIV
The city was in an uproar, hateful influences stirring up an angry mob. People were shouting, threatening, ready to take out their disturbing emotions on someone.
The funny thing is, “Most of the people did not even know why they were there” (Acts 19:32).
They just wanted to hurt someone—especially anyone who repre- sented God and challenged their false gods. It was a dangerous place to be a Christian—but Paul didn’t care. He was ready to defend his faith under all circumstances.
What moved Paul? What motivated him? What is the difference between Paul and you and me? Could I demonstrate such courage and strength of convictions?
Paul possessed such courage because one fine day he allowed God’s love to totally rule his heart and life. We are told earlier, “Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul.” He was filled with the Holy Spirit and loved the people to whom he preached, praying for their illnesses and hardships.
God’s love is an active, pursuing love.
Right now, no matter where you are, He is actively loving you, pur- suing you, desiring to heal you and bless you beyond your wildest imagination.
The only thing hindering His love from shaping and motivating your life is you! He is calling you to let go of your struggle against Him.Give in. Surrender to His infinite love and He will take care of the rest. “There are two kinds of people: those who say to God, ‘Thy will be done,’ and those to whom God says, ‘All right, then, have it your way.’” —C.S. Lewis
