Be of Good Cheer!

Acts 23:11 The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage!..." What a comforting word the Lord had for the Apostle Paul that night! Paul had great expectations and high aspirations for his visit to Jerusalem this time around but was met with one disappointment after another instead. He was certain that his presence in Jerusalem would mean salvation for many and encouragement for many more. Instead, he met with a strange request from the elders at the church in Jerusalem and dealt with rioting, beatings and rejection from the religious Jews at the temple. In fact, if it hadn’t been for the Roman commander Claudias Lysias rescuing him, Paul would have been torn to pieces by those worshipping at the temple. So, Paul found himself in prison, rejected by his people and all alone. Even the elders of the church in Jerusalem were no where to be found to bring encouragement and comfort to the discouraged servant of Christ. That’s when the Lord draws near to Paul. How amazing and encouraging it must have been for Paul to have the Lord stand near and say, “Take courage!” or “Be of good cheer!” I find that the Lord does that with me as well. When everything’s dark and it seems that all hope is gone, the Lord stands near and whispers in my ear, “Take courage!” “Be of good cheer!” Know this — the Lord understands whatever challenge you are having, He knows the discouragement you’re experiencing. He also knows what the outcome of the trial or trials will be. So, take courage and be of good cheer! The Lord has thoughts and plans for you that are far beyond anything you could imagine! Continue to seek His face and follow His heart for you. And you’ll experience Him being near you, encouraging you to be of good cheer! "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you HOPE and a FUTURE." Jeremiah 29:11 Lord Bless You! Pastor Graham