Pastor's Pen

​Beloved, the Apostle Paul knew what was awaiting him in Jerusalem. He had been warned again and again that trouble was waiting for him.
 
Previously it was the prophet Agabus who had prophesied that Paul would be bound. Acts 21:10-11 says, “While we were staying for many days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. 11And coming to us, he took Paul’s belt and bound his own feet and hands and said, “Thus says the Holy Spirit, ‘This is how the Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’”
 
Paul was not surprised at his imprisonment and suffering and when we suffer, we should not be surprised as well. 1 Peter 4:12-13 says, “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.”
 
Beloved, remember this truth that even in the midst of tribulation we can have a peace which passes understanding. John 16:33 says, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
 
Blessings,
Pastor Joe