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10 When the governor motioned for him to speak, Paul replied: “I know that for a number of years you have been a judge over this nation; so, I gladly make my defense. 11 You can easily verify that no more than twelve days ago I went up to Jerusalem to worship. 12 My accusers did not find me arguing with anyone at the temple or stirring up a crowd in the synagogues or anywhere else in the city. 13 And they cannot prove to you the charges they are now making against me. 14 However, I admit that I worship the God of our ancestors as a follower of the Way, which they call a sect. I believe everything that is in accordance with the Law and that is written in the Prophets, 15 and I have the same hope in God as these men themselves have, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked.

 

Standing before the governor, accused and alone, Paul’s words reveal both courage and clarity of faith. A confident hope. Rather than defend himself with anger or self-pity, he calmly proclaims his identity: “I worship the God of our ancestors as a follower of the Way.” Paul’s confidence didn’t come from his circumstances but from his conviction. He knew whom he served and what he believed—that everything written in God’s Word was true, and that the hope of resurrection was certain. His faith, even under pressure, became his testimony.

Paul’s example reminds me that faith often requires quiet courage. While there are times when I question what it means to follow Christ, my calling (our calling) remains the same: to stand firm in grace, to live truthfully, and to trust the Jesus who died to save all! Our defense, like Paul’s, is not about proving ourselves right—it’s about pointing to God who makes all things right.

Let us pray … In every season of uncertainty, Paul’s words invite us to root our confidence not in control or approval but in the living hope of resurrection. The same God who stood with Paul stands with us today, reminding us that no accusation, failure, or fear can undo the life we have in Christ. Amen

Deborah Schroeder-Saulnier

deborah@excelleadershipsolutions.com

 

Prayer Concern: For those who are losing hope … that they may see God in us and live with courage and clarity of faith!