WEDNESDAY, MAY 4
9 One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision and told him,
“Don’t be afraid! Speak out! Don’t be silent!”
Acts 18:10 (NLT)
LOOKING UP: HEAR FROM THE LORD
Brian Simo is a race car driver, and most of you have probably never heard of him. However, there is one thing about him with which you are probably familiar. In 1985, he created the “No Fear” clothing line and found an idea that appealed to many Americans.
In Acts 18, the Apostle Paul was wrestling with fear. At that point, the Lord appeared to Paul in the night by a vision and told him to not be afraid. Luke records at least 6 up close, personal encounters of Paul with the Lord Jesus in Acts. The first was for his salvation and the others were to give him instruction and encouragement, telling him not to be fearful. Jack Andrews writes, “Paul had already been stoned and thought to be dead in Lystra—He had already been beaten with rods and imprisoned in Philippi—He had already been threatened and run out of town in Thessalonica and Berea. He was not immune to persecution and trials, but we also note that he was not immune to fear and trepidation. The Lord commanded His servant not to fear, but to speak the Word of God and not be silent.”
Reflection
Paul was able to be reassured because he was willing to listen to the Lord. We learned in the sermon that the number one way we listen to God and find encouragement from Him is to read His Word daily. Do you have a commitment to read God’s Word on a daily basis? If not, start today. It will help calm your fears.
Prayer/Praise
Praise God for His ability to control what’s happening in the world and for His care in your life. Ask God to calm your heart in any area where you are wrestling with fear.
