October 26, 2011 (Job 17; Acts 24-26)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “Nor can they prove to you the charges of which they now accuse me.” Acts 24:13 NASB
Observation: The Jews had falsely accused Paul of things he did not do. They were professors of religion, yet they were liars and consumed with all types of evil. They wanted Paul killed because the gospel he preached convicted them of the sin they were living in. They preferred a message of encouragement only that was embraced by the majority, rather than a message of correction that led to repentance.
Application: The same is true today. Many churches are full of people who profess Christ with their mouths, but their heart does not know Him. They still bring false charges against people they don’t like or people they want to destroy. They go to church on Sunday and talk about how much they love Jesus on facebook after doing these things. People still desire to hear a message of encouragement only. A message of correction and repentance is abhorred by the very people who claim to love God. Even though false allegations may be brought against God’s people, no weapon formed against them will prosper.
Prayer: Lord help me love You with all my heart! Put a spirit of compassion towards my enemies in my heart. Help me love them like You say, not according to how I feel. Protect Your people from the false charges being brought against them. Deliver and set the captive free as only You can! Lift me up above the shadows of sin and set my feet on the solid Rock of Your Son, in Jesus name, Amen!