The following night the Lord stood by him and said, “Have courage! For as you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so it is necessary for you to testify in Rome.” (Acts 23:11)
When this chapter begins, the Jewish mob and the Sanhedrin in Jerusalem are attempting to kill Paul because of his preaching in Acts 21-22. This chapter reveals how God used the Sanhedrin, the Roman commander in Jerusalem, Paul’s nephew, and nearly 500 military men to protect Paul and safely move him from Jerusalem to Caesarea. Paul’s desire was to go to Rome and God promised that he would get there – this was the beginning of his journey. In this chapter we see how God uses people and circumstances to accomplish his plans. God’s sovereignty in the affairs of men is clearly exhibited. Paul wasn’t lucky; God protected him.
In a similar way, God exerts his sovereignty in our lives. How often do you look at your circumstances and acknowledge that God has been working on your behalf? Or, do you simply attribute circumstances to your own good choices or to good luck? How often are you oblivious to peril that could have happened? Remember, God is always with you (Matt 28:20). Your steps are established by the Lord (Ps. 37:23). He has given his angels orders to protect you in all your ways (Ps. 91:11). Watch for God’s intervention on your behalf, for he cares for you. Watch, acknowledge, praise God, and be thankful.