ROMANS 15:31

“that I may be rescued from those who are disobedient in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may prove acceptable to the saints;”

Sometimes you just know you are going into dangerous territory. I have traveled in some parts of the world that were a little “sketchy.” I knew I was supposed to go and trusted the Lord to protect me. He has done that, and I believe He will continue to do that as long as I am doing His will and not mine. I am not saying I may not suffer hardships, but I know He will see me through in one way or the other. I always have people praying as I go.

Paul asked for prayers in the previous verse, and in today’s verse he says why. If you want a great reminder of the dangers he was facing, go back and read Acts 21 and 22. Keep in mind, Paul had been given letters by the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem to go and arrest Christians. Instead, Paul had been arrested by Jesus on the Damascus Road. These leaders were furious and now wanted Paul dead. So, Paul knew he was entering into the lions’ den upon returning to Jerusalem.

APPLICATION

Do you struggle trusting God in times of trouble? Don’t feel bad. Most everyone does. Even the strongest believers can get weak knees at times. A momentary lack of faith does not mean you have lost your faith. But in those darkest moments God grows you. There is not a hole too deep or an ocean too wide that God cannot reach you. He is right there with you.

I recall one time I was in a part of Uganda leading a conference where most of the people were Muslim. There had been attacks on Christians there for sharing the Gospel and here I was training these Christian leaders. I had not even realized it, but we started this conference on the very days leading up to Ramadan. If you know anything about Islam, Ramadan is a holy period of fasting and praying for Muslims. One morning just before daybreak I heard drums beating and they were getting louder and louder. I looked out my hotel window and could see nothing but drums and chanting. I never got scared. Maybe I was just naïve, but I truly believe the Lord calmed my spirit.

As you face uncertain days (and we all do from time to time), let the Lord calm your spirit. He has the peace that passes understanding (Phil. 4:7). He is the One who rescues every lost sheep. He is our refuge and our tower of safety. Lean into him. Ask others to pray for you and then step in faith trusting the One Who leads you.

Father, when I tremble, calm my spirit. Help me to trust You with all my fears.

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