Daily PresenceSample

I’ve recently listened to several interviews with a well-known psychologist. He’s made quite a name for himself simply sharing the truth in a culture that doesn’t seem to understand the definition of the word anymore. Due to the fact that many of his opinions are controversial, he receives some very extreme reactions from both fans and enemies. I’m sure he never expected his education in psychology to lead to death threats and hate mail, but nonetheless, he continues to weather the storm with a great deal of integrity. I suppose this perseverance is why I’ve become so interested in his thought process. I’ve rarely seen such a level of character displayed in anyone in the limelight.

What’s even more gripping isn’t his bravery or his ability to look past the challenges of ruffling the feathers of society, but instead his willingness to share the struggle attached to it. Despite the heaviness of people sharing their hatred for him, or the allure of people deifying his very being, he recognizes “truth” must prevail over the reaction of the crowd. This re-prioritizing allows him to operate with a strength that often ruins others.

Paul had this same strength and I believe it came from the Spirit of God in him! In just one chapter, Paul goes from being nearly murdered to being worshiped! Acts 14:5 says Paul and Barnabas had to flee a city after preaching a controversial truth that caused the people to make plans “to mistreat them and to stone them.” When they moved on to the next city, they were received completely differently! Acts 14:11 says “when the crowds saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in Lycaonian, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!”

These reactions didn’t lead Paul, the Spirit of God led Paul! The truth of the gospel was far greater than the potential dangers of death or pride that could have easily ensnared another man. Paul was so moved by the potential of “new life in Christ” for those he preached to that nothing could stand in his way. No crowd’s reaction could sway him from sharing the truth of the gospel.