26
Appeal to live
Rod ShimabukuroIf then I am a wrongdoer and have committed anything for which I deserve to die, I do not seek to escape death. But if there is nothing to their charges against me, no one can give me up to them. I appeal to Caesar.” Acts 25:11
Paul has to be one of the most incredible men of God I know. Having the type of authority he had, being the earthy, influential, powerful leader he was among the Pharisees and government of his time - Paul was “reduced” to the life of a prisoner and slave. Yet we know Paul’s attitude - his deep devotion to Jesus…as he wrote in other letters… Paul… the prisoner and slave of Jesus!
That’s the heart and mindset I want in adverse circumstances. It’s not the world or governors or officials of this system who own me. I’m not enslaved to my flesh or imprisoned by the appetites of worldliness. I do not seek, as Paul, to escape death if I am privileged to die in and for Jesus! (Oh God - is this really my hearts covenant? That I would die for You!?)
Yet today, I desire the wisdom of God to live for Him. To make appeal and be diplomatic so as to live in this life, a longer life to won more - to be obedient until death. So my prayer is…
Dear Spirit of God,
Fill me with wisdom to fight not for my own rights to live, for wisdom to make appeals in life based on living for You. I continue to struggle with living for MY agenda, rights and ways. Help me to live a pleasing life that makes You smile! Thanks do applauding me until death!
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