Acts 21:14

Monday, 23 October 2023

So when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, “The will of the Lord be done.” Acts 21:14

The Greek literally reads, “And he not being persuaded, we quieted, having said, ‘The will of the Lord be done’” (CG).

Paul just protested to those who desired him to not go up to Jerusalem. In his words, he said that he was ready not only to be bound but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus. With that stated, it next says, “And he not being persuaded, we quieted.”

There was obviously no point in continuing. His statement meant he was fixed and firm in his decision to go as intended. Therefore, they resignedly ceased, “having said, ‘The will of the Lord be done.’”

As Paul invoked the name of the Lord in the preceding verse, they gave in and, in turn, invoked the will of the Lord.

Life application: There is a time when words are to cease, and attempts to change what shouldn't be changed should be ended. Jesus understood this, made a simple petition, and then resigned Himself to the will of His Father –

“Coming out, He went to the Mount of Olives, as He was accustomed, and His disciples also followed Him. 40 When He came to the place, He said to them, ‘Pray that you may not enter into temptation.’

41 And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, ‘Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.’” Luke 22:39-42

For us, although we cannot know what the future holds, we can clue in and realize that fighting against what should occur is a futile thing to do. Paul was determined to complete his mission, he was aware of what was coming, but he knew that it was the right thing to do.

There are times where we may be challenged to act in a way that compromises our faith. That may include certain imprisonment or even death. But if we truly believe that Jesus has us firmly in His hands, then such an outcome is temporary. We will be rewarded for our faith. Therefore, let us choose the right path, even if things look bleak in the short term.

Lord God, our faith can be weakened when facing difficult prospects that may lie ahead of us. In such times, give us strengthening for the trials. Help us when we willingly choose to be obedient to Your word and Your will. Yes, be with us, O God, that we may be faithful to the calling You have called us to. Amen.