“In Between Normals”: A 30 Day Devotion on the Book of ActsSample

You Don't Need to Be in Control

Of all the people in the New Testament, Paul probably had the most difficulties letting go of control. Paul was certainly a “Type-A” high achiever. However, people like Paul have a deadly weakness. They readily assume that they could achieve everything by themselves because everything is under their control.

You know, sometimes there is a difference between confidence and arrogance.

When Paul Was Not in Control

In today's reading, we find Paul stood trial before the Sanhedrin. There was such an uproar that Paul's life was at risk. Seeing the chaos, the Roman commander quickly removed Paul into the military barracks. Now, which part of this story was Paul in control of?

Later, a group of Jews conspired to kill Paul. But this plot was discovered by "the son of Paul's sister" (23:16) and reported to the Roman commander. Again, was Paul in control?

The Roman commander then sent a detachment of 200 soldiers, 70 horsemen, and 200 spearmen to escort Paul to Caesarea Maritima! (23:23) Once more, in which part of this story was Paul in control?

No! Paul was totally passive! He was not in control at all. In fact, he didn’t need to! Why?

When God Was in Control

Because God had already given Paul His Word. "Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.” (23:11) And things did unfold exactly the way God said! Through various twists and turns, Paul did end up in Rome, safe and sound, doing exactly what God said he will do!

Paul didn't need to be in control because God was. And when God’s in control, you know you are safe! Later, when Paul was in Rome, he wrote the Letter to the Philippians. I wonder if he was talking about this experience when he wrote, "he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion." (Philippians 1:6)

My friend, it’s time to let go of our egos and our pride. We don’t need to do everything “all by myself.” Let God work in your environment and through other people to achieve His purpose in you. Be humble. Learn to receive with gratitude. You don’t need to be in control.

Reflection:

What happened last time when God used others to help you when you were not in control? What did you learn?