TODAY’S TRUTH July 4, 2013 And looking intently at the council, Paul said, “Brothers, I have lived my life before God in all good conscience up to this day.” Acts 23:1 In this world, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted (2 Timothy 3:12). People will falsely accuse the godly, slander their character, and even at times try to physically harm them. What is a Christian to do when such injustices occur? The apostle Paul experienced his fair share of being persecuting for righteousness sake. Time and time again, he suffered unjustly at the hands of the Jews. Paul’s focus during these trials teaches us a lot of how to practically apply Jesus’ teachings. Jesus taught, “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matthew 10:28). But how does this apply to Paul’s specific trials and how does it apply to yours? Although Paul had previously been beaten with rods, he escaped being examined by flogging because he was a Roman citizen. As he was being interrogated by the chief priests and the council, Paul began his defense by stating, “Brothers, I have lived my life before God in all good conscience up to this day.” Paul’s greatest concern was living righteously before God. He was more concerned about having a clear conscience before God than anything else. In short, Paul feared God and not man. Suffering for righteousness sake has a great reward. Jesus said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10). Peter, knowing Christ’s teaching, put it this way: “But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame” (1 Peter 3:14-16). Beloved, at all times, including in the face of persecution, you must actively choose to honor Christ in your heart. You must choose to do what pleases him and not what pleases your flesh. Like Paul, you should be focused on having a clean conscience toward God and man: “So I always take pains to have a clear conscience toward both God and man” (Acts 24:16). Act God-honoring in all things and you will have a clear conscience at all times (Hebrews 13:18). To God be the glory!!!
Posted on: Thu, 04 Jul 2013 08:27:45 +0000
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