Act 16:19 When her owners realized that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to face the authorities. 20 They brought them before the magistrates and said, “These men are Jews, and are throwing our city into an uproar 21 by advocating customs unlawful for us Romans to accept or practice.”22 The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods. 23 After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. 24 When he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.
When you stand up friends for truth, what is right, justice, or any worthy cause be prepared for backlash. You are in the wicked territory!!!. He will roar at you but fear not, for Christ Jesus has overcome on your behalf. Blessed are you if you suffer for righteousness sake.
Friends, notice how swiftly the testimony changed. Paul and Silas were “servant of the Most High God, who are telling people the way to be saved” just a few moment before in Acts 16:17. Now they are “Jews, and are throwing our city into an uproar by advocating customs unlawful for us Romans to accept or practice” -Acts 16:20. Things will be said of you contrary to the truth, please do not bother trying to explain, clarify, justify, or defend yourself. Leave that to your advocate to do. Remember everything hidden will one day come to light. Stay focused and on course!
1 Peter 3:13 Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? 14 But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” 15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. 17 For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. 18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.
Lord may we not lose heart as we run this race. May we be stirred up more and more to live for you. We receive grace today to obey your every word in Christ Jesus mighty name. Amen
Shalom! Shalom! Shalom!
Radiant Glory Of Love 