Paul gave us a perfect example of how to embrace our difficult situations, and give God the glory.
Here he was chained and imprisoned, again, and he so eloquently gave his testimony in front of a multitude of gathers. These people were not gathering to hear Paul necessarily, but to see if his future would be determined. Would the Jewish leaders and important priest get their way in having Paul sent back to Jerusalem so they could carry out their plan to kill Paul? (Acts 25) Or will Paul get his way and go to Rome to plead his case to Caesar?
When confrontation arises, we might want to take a good lesson from Paul in smooth talking; I mean an “eloquent discussion opening”. In Acts 26:2-3 he begins his plea with King Agrippa by saying:
- “King Agrippa, I consider myself fortunate to stand before you today as I make my defense against all the accusations of the Jews, 3 and especially so because you are well acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies. Therefore, I beg you to listen to me patiently.”
For example, just this past week I was shopping at a new store here in town. The couple standing behind me in the “purchase only” line were doing nothing but loudly complaining about the store, the people, the merchandise, and my hometown! When a lady, whom had just walked in and proceeded to the “returns” line was serviced before them, and myself, they became confrontational over the swift service this innocent lady received.
A new cashier line was opening, and it was my turn to be the next customer. I proceeded to the register, and those people followed me. Ugh! They couldn’t wait in the proper line. Why did God do this?
Aha. God had a plan.
I had had enough of their constant crankiness and politely smiled, turned their direction, and gave them my best “southern/godly hospitality” explanation of how the “return” and “purchase only” lins work. The cashier that was waiting on me was graciously not saying anything. When I finished and she agreed with my point and smiled.
Did my “eloquent and gracious” speech calm them down? It did. Kindness works.
Did God know that He needed to test my polite boldness in the new store in town, in front of others, with this confrontational couple? I’m thinking so.
Now, I may not have given my testimony like Paul so plainly and beautifully did in Acts 26:4-29, but I did share some of God’s loving kindness and patience with the couple in the store.
Next time you find yourself in a confrontational situation; take a breath, say a prayer, and allow God to eloquently speak through you.
Blessings and God’s abundant love to all!
August 2