Yesterday, I tried something different by recording my thoughts on the 40/40 Challenge daily reading. It was a bit disjointed. I think I do better writing down my thoughts than speaking them verbally. So, today I am back to writing down my thoughts.
That very day, the whole church in Jerusalem began experiencing severe persecution. All of the followers of Jesus—except for the emissaries themselves—fled to the countryside of Judea and Samaria. Young Saul went on a rampage—hunting the church, house after house, dragging both men and women to prison. All those who had been scattered by the persecution moved from place to place; and wherever they went, they weren’t afraid or silent. Instead, they spread the message of Jesus. Acts 8:1b – 4 The Voice
The stoning to death of Stephen began a time of horrific persecution of Christians. In order to escape the followers of Jesus fled. I’m sure that the persecutors believed that by persecuting the Christians they would end the spread of Christianity throughout the land.
The irony is that the persecutors were actually pivotal in the spread of Christianity through the lands. Because wherever the Christians ended up, “they weren’t afraid or silent. Instead, they spread the message of Jesus.” What the persecutors meant to end Jesus’ message was actually what spread His message even further.
You’ve got to love how God works, right?!?
I think this is a great example of how, “We are confident that God is able to orchestrate everything to work toward something good and beautiful when we love Him and accept His invitation to live according to His plan.” Romans 8:28 The Voice
What the persecutors mean for evil and harm, God turned to good for the Christians who fled and were living by His plan spreading His message to all the lands.
Lord, Jesus help me not be afraid or silent, but to spread Your message instead!
Until next time with Jesus’ help let’s be less messy and choose what’s better.