Acts 14:1-7 – Conflict Will Come

Read Acts 14:1-7

The grass is not always greener on the other side. Today we see an example of this truth. It’s not like Paul and Barnabas were expecting a new town to be without issues. But we see the same scenario playing out again. The twists and turns may be a little different, but the similarities are striking.

What I liked about this account is the apostles stayed there “a long time.” They didn’t jump ship, they persevered. Through their ministry, many people heard the Good News and believed. They were bold, and God rewarded their faithfulness by revealing himself through the miraculous signs and wonders. How bold are you in standing on your faith in the midst of conflict? What setbacks have you encountered that have caused you to step back, move on or reevaluate?

Because God gives us the ability to choose, and we’re not merely puppets all bowing down to him, there will be conflict. The Bible is full of different conflicts, so we should expect and be prepared for them, too. It can be hard to persevere through the trials and conflicts of life. Many times the right answer is to move on like Paul and Barnabas have done. There are always new ears eager to hear the Good News. But beware, evil lurks to derail our mission for good whether we stay or go.

While I do not like conflict one little bit, I recognize conflict can be a good thing. If handled in a healthy way, conflicts can resolve and the beauty on the other side can be worth the effort. However, left to fester,  conflict can ruin lives, relationships, and keep people from a true faith and experiencing the grace of God. Where there is a conflict, there is a potential for growth. Where there is conflict, there is a fight between evil and good. Don’t ignore conflict, boldly ask God for help to work through it.

Even good people can be taken over by evil thoughts and desires. We’ve seen that in our most recent Bible passages. Evil can infiltrate and separate; that’s what it does best. When evil is working, you can be sure God is working overtime to protect those obedient to him. We should look at the roadblocks in our life as proof we are on the right path. There is always a way around so long as glorifying God is our purpose and mission. God will provide us a Plan B when conflict or setbacks get in the way of His plans.

Have you had a time in your life where you felt limited and stuck by circumstances out of your control? Did you persevere and boldly work through that situation? Maybe you’re going through something right now. Take to heart the words of our reading today – be bold and God will give power. Be faithful and God will provide.

Let’s pray. Lord, it sounds easier than it is to be bold when we are in the midst of a storm or crisis. But time and time again you have shown me how when I am obedient to you the provision comes. Your answer to my prayers comes in ways I often don’t expect, but as I look back on my life I see you at work. Thank you for having my back. There is a situation right now that is taking up a lot of my time, and I am prayerful for your hand to be at work. I am standing boldly with you and trust you for a good outcome. Thank you that you are in control, and may I honor you in all I say and do. In Jesus’ name. Amen.