September 2, 2021 - Acts 23:23-35

Paul Revere was sent on a wild horseback ride in the middle of the night to warn Samuel Adams and John Hancock of an impending attack by the British. This famous ride is often considered the event that began the Revolutionary War. Revere risked his life so that others could be free, and a new nation become a reality.

The apostle Paul was whisked away in the middle of the night to be protected from forty men who had pledged to end his life before their next meal. The Roman commander took his responsibilities seriously and considered the necessary steps to ensure that Paul would be safe under his protection. The commander writes a letter of introduction to the governor providing him with information needed to examine, Paul, the prisoner. Upon arrival, Felix briefly questioned Paul about his place of origin and when he concluded it was within his jurisdiction, he agreed to hear the case.

There are times when the Lord appears to be silent, and the process of the secular rule is allowed to run its course and accomplish its duties. In the care of two hundred Roman soldiers, seventy horsemen and two hundred spearmen, Paul was well protected from the scheme of the Jews. Despite the threats, the Lord provided overwhelming security for Paul so that he could arrive at the destination the Lord had previously stated he would reach (23:11).

The Lord uses both the supernatural and ordinary resources to bring His children to the place he desires them. The Lord can move the heavens and earth, or He uses the most powerful army in the world to transport His servant to an appointed destination. Nothing is too difficult to hinder the work or word of God so that it is delivered at its appointed time and place. Romans 8:31-39 speaks of the everlasting love of God and how He will allow nothing to separate us from Him and His appointed duties. Be prepared for His answer to your adversity, it may be on its way in an unexpected manner!