Despite every reason to give in or give up, I’m amazed that Paul not only kept his faith in the midst of imprisonment, but Paul actually advanced the Kingdom throughout his entire experience. He saw his experience through an eternal lens…choosing to go out sharing the Gospel to all who could listen, even if it was literally the last thing he did. What’s neat is that while sharing the good news wasn’t new for Paul, it was in one of his lowest moments that those around him saw firsthand the power of his hope, the power of his confidence.
Even if we don’t have all the theological answers to the world’s toughest questions, we can share our story and our hope. Verse 14 shows how Paul’s testimony was contagious…leading others to grow in their boldness, sharing the Word without fear. May that be true of us in the midst of all our circumstances…the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Lord, help me be more like Paul. Please grow my confidence in You and the promises You have for me, and may I be a contagious encouragement to those seeking the truth of Your Word.