"Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, 'Do not be afraid, but speak and do not keep silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.' "
Acts 18:9-10
I am trying to get into Paul's head to understand what has happened here. Paul was compelled to share the Gospel of Jesus (vs. 5). But apparently, being the human he was, he had become frustrated by the rejection of the Jews and in his anger he shook his clothes and turned away from them (vs. 6). I think maybe he just became tired of the fight with the Jews, and the persecution. Perhaps there was even some fear. Who in his right mind wants to be beaten and stoned again? Enough of this, already!!! But Jesus, in His compassion, came to encourage Paul and let him know he was not alone. Paul's vision was rejuvenated, and after he left Corinth and went to Ephesus, he again entered the synagogue to reason with the Jews (vs. 19). We are in a battle, and when we get tired of the fight, we need to remember that Jesus is with us, and we have nothing to fear.
Today's Thought: When Jesus is with us, we need not fear.
Have a fearless day. Love you.
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