Today’s scripture: Acts 24:1-23 (NRSV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Melody Merida):
So many of us get a picture in our mind that represents how we believe a Christian should act. That picture tends to typically be a very passive and submissive one. After all, Jesus taught us to turn the other cheek, right? But does that mean that we should be a doormat? I love reading a passage of Scripture like this one in Acts and seeing a picture that stands in direct contrast to the earlier picture.
Here we see Paul, a great Christian man, being rather aggressive in his own defense. He was not about to become a doormat. The religious leaders of the day seemed to have a strong argument against Paul, but Paul refuted their accusations point by point. Despite all odds, Paul was also able to present the Gospel message through his defense, using every opportunity to witness for Christ.
Isaiah 30:18 says, “The Lord is a God of justice…” and Psalm 106:3 says, “Blessed are they who maintain justice.” I think it’s clear that God never intended for us to be passive. We can be assured that where there is injustice, God is calling us, like Paul, to stand up and battle that injustice. In doing so, we will be seeking the heart of God and will be given a wonderful opportunity to witness about our faith.
What is the injustice about which we keep silent? What is God calling us to stand up and refute point-by-point in the name of justice?
Thought and prayer for the day: God, give me your power to fight injustice wherever it may be. Teach me how to turn the other cheek while seeking your justice.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.