“After we had been there a number of days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea.  Coming over to us, he took Paul’s belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said, “The Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and will hand him over to the Gentiles.’”

When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem.  Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”  When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, “The Lord’s will be done.” (Acts 20:10-14)

     A prophet named Agabus gave Paul some news that would have discouraged the average person from continuing in the mission to preach the gospel of Christ, but Paul would not be dissuaded.  He knew exactly what God was calling him into as he was completely committed to God’s plan. 

     If we hear “gloom and doom” reports of the future, how does that affect us?  Are we afraid that persecution of Christians will not only continue in other parts of the world, but ours as well?  Let’s pray that God will give us the strength and fortitude to stand up for Jesus in all circumstances.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we hear too many reports of persecution towards those who follow you.  We pray for them, and for us to always stand strong in the faith, because you are with us in this fight.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.