The Walk

Paul knew this. He. KNEW. This.

But it was so different to hear it. Unsettling. Worrisome. Even frightening.

His friends, confidants, partners in ministry were worried. Their voices rose as they clamored for his attention, begging him not to go to Jerusalem. A few of them even tugged on his arms.

And a part of him wanted to listen.

He vehemently shook his head and waved his arms. His friends, people who had become family to him, quieted, waiting for him to speak.

The part of him that desperately wanted - needed - to follow the Lord knew different. The desire burned within him. He would go. He would follow the Lord anywhere.

Based on Acts 21:10-14

While we were staying for many days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. And coming to us, he took Paul’s belt and bound his own feet and hands and said, "Thus says the Holy Spirit, 'This is how the Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.'" When we heard this, we and the people there urged him not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, "What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." And since he would not be persuaded, we ceased and said, "Let the will of the Lord be done." Acts 21:10-14

A man of God arrived, and told Paul that hard things laid ahead. That if he went to Jerusalem, troubles would come. Understandably, Paul's close friends tried to keep him safe. And I don't think there isn't any one of us who WOULDN'T listen to our friends and loved ones in this position. But the so-called "sensible" path is not always God's path.

Sometimes God walks us through difficult seasons to reap joys in the harvest.

Or as I like to say...

Sometimes we have to walk through mud to get to the bookstore. :)

But the thing is, God doesn't let us walk alone. He doesn't leave us. And He always brings us through it. We are not alone. No matter what we face, and in the Christian's walk, we face a lot of hardships, persecutions, uncertainties, and worries. But instead of giving in to the enemy's fear, give your fear to God. He's got your back and He says, "Let's do this thing."

V. Joy Palmer