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1999-07-15 - The Little Things
Acts 20:16 For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus in
order that he might not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to
be in Jerusalem, if possible, on the day of Pentecost. (NAS)
Paul had made it known earlier that he had wanted to be in Jerusalem for
the Passover. Here he is obviously still a long journey away and the date
is past. He is not wild-eyed with frustration, or crushed under grief or
anything in between with the fact that his plans had to be adjusted. He is
adjusting them and leaving the outcome to God. He passes by Ephesus. He probably
felt that stopping there would be a significant delay, and he was probably
right.
But that little clause - if possible - says that Paul knew God was
in control. If God had wanted Paul in Jerusalem for the Passover, He would
have simply done with Paul as was done with Phillip when Phillip was literally
transported to the place where the Ethiopian eunuch was passing by in his
chariot. Poof! And Paul would have been there for the Passover dinner. Paul
was sidestepping attempts on his life during his return trip. It was not
clear that he would return at all.
If possible made allowance for God to send Paul to places like Ephesus
along with significant delays for the purposes of the Lord. Our schedules
can be very important things to us. Preparation for a test or a special event
can draw a great deal of our focus. But if God can move Kings and Kingdoms
to satisfy His plans, our schedules don't really stand a chance.
Phil 4:11-13 Not that I speak from want; for I have learned
to be content in whatever circumstances I am. 12 I know how
to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity;
in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and
going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.
13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
(NAS)
Having our plans deviated is frustrating, or it can be. Paul had learned
to roll with the punches and let God do with Paul as He needed. He had suffered
a few punches - shipwrecked, stoned and left for dead, snakebit by a viper.
That sure does put the wrinkle in our schedules into perspective. Try to
see the little things that go astray during the day from the perspective
that God may be working in your life. Trust Jesus with the little things
in your life, and the big things will move into place where He wants them.
Grace & Peace,
Mike |
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