...[S]uddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's bonds were unfastened. Acts 16:26
This morning, until I start a new Bible study, I continue using devotionals from John Piper. Today, the post focuses on how believers can endure through difficulties through faith. Piper, using the story of Paul and Silas' arrest and imprisonment in Acts 16 to illustrate, seeks for us to see how whatever challenges we face, God's care for us is always present. In Acts 16, although Paul and Silas suffered through an arrest and beating, they were ultimately freed - it was their faith that saw them through. This is what Piper refers to in the title of today's devotional - "delayed deliverance." In Isaiah 55:8, God says:
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord." Isaiah 55:8
The message God wants us to hear from this verse, and from other verses throughout scripture, is that we may not see God in our present circumstances, but is always with us - He says so in Matthew 28:20 where He says:
"I am with you always, to the end of the age." Matthew 28:20
Returning to the devotion, Piper seeks for us to see how God may delay His deliverance for us but it WILL come...even if it means we see it upon death. Piper wraps the devotional by pointing us to Revelation 2:10:
Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. Revelation 2:10
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an incredible God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion for me. I know that You will never leave or forsake me - during good or difficult times. Thank You Jesus for never leaving of forsaking me. I am not deserving of Your love and the salvation You provide. My sin is daily and it is great. Worry, etc. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
