“One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: ‘Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.’” – Acts 18:9–10
From time to time we all need to hear encouraging words like this, because sometimes life can be tough.
Whether it is ministry work, marriage or business, we can get stuck in a rut with very little to show. In such situations the natural inclination is to opt out or throw in the towel.
This was the case of the apostle Paul in Corinth. The Jews opposed him and even became abusive, to the extent that he shook out his clothes in protest and decided to leave and go to the Gentiles (v6).
But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, “Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.” (Acts 18:6)
It was clear that the great apostle was getting discouraged. It took a vision from the Lord to encourage him to persevere (v9-10).
“One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: ‘Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.’” – Acts 18:9–10
The Lord had to reassure him of His presence with him and the fact that he was going to eventually break through if he did not give up, because God had more people in the city.
Paul responded in obedience and stayed on for a year and a half, teaching and preaching the word of God (v11).
Beloved, it is important to understand that no one succeeds overnight. Indeed, most success stories are the result of many years of sacrifice, toil and hard work. You must be willing to stand your ground and press on till victory is in sight.
Today, I believe someone needs to hear this: do not be afraid, do not give up, God is with you!
“But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.” (1 Peter 5:10, KJV)
Soon your progress will be evident to all if you stay the course!
– Rev. Simon Ampofo
