from Gary Hamrick
... Senior Pastor of Cornerstone Chapel
for
Courage for the Journey
... Christ’s presence gives us courage to remain faithful, even when the road is difficult.
Acts 23:11 NKJV (devotion translation)
But the following night the Lord stood by him and said, ‘Be of good cheer, Paul; for as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome.’
Devotion:
Today’s Scripture reminds us that God’s encouragement often comes when we need it most.
Paul had faithfully preached Christ, yet he found himself in prison because of his obedience. Instead of removing the trial, Jesus came to reassure him. His words, "Be of good cheer," were not based on easier circumstances, but on God’s unchanging purpose.
The Lord reminded Paul that his ministry was not over. The same God who had called him to testify in Jerusalem would also lead him to Rome. Even imprisonment would become part of God’s plan to bring the gospel before those who needed to hear it.
We also face seasons of uncertainty, disappointment, and hardship. While we may not understand God’s ways, we can trust His character. He does not waste our trials. He uses them to deepen our faith and accomplish His purposes in ways we cannot always see.
Faithfulness is what God asks of us. The results belong to Him. As we continue to walk with Christ, He supplies the strength and courage we need for each step.
Remember today that the Lord who calls you is the Lord who stands beside you.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for Your faithful presence in every season. Help me to trust Your purposes, remain faithful to Christ, and receive the courage You freely give each day. Amen.
Related Sermon:
Digging Deeper:
- Psalms 27:14 ↗ - Wait on the Lord with courage, trusting Him to strengthen your heart.
- Joshua 1:9 ↗ - Be strong and courageous, for the Lord is with you wherever you go.
- Isaiah 41:10 ↗ - God strengthens, helps, and upholds those who trust in Him.
- 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 ↗ - Christ’s grace is sufficient, and His strength is made perfect in weakness.
- Philippians 1:6 ↗ - God faithfully completes the work He begins in His people.
- Hebrews 13:5-6 ↗ - The Lord never leaves nor forsakes His people, giving confidence in every circumstance.
- Romans 8:31 ↗ - If God is for us, who can be against us?