5 July 2023 – What have I learned today?
Acts Chapter 24: Verse 16 (NIV)
“ So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.”
Acts Chapter 24: Verses 24-26 (NIV)
Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, “That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him.
Paul conducted himself as a good ambassador at all times, and never sought to compromise his faith.
Governor Felix was interested in what Paul had to say, but when the truth began to prick at his conscience, he became afraid and sent Paul away. We get a glimpse of why he became afraid, when we see that he hoped to receive a bribe from Paul.
To be a true follower of Jesus we must do our best to maintain our integrity. We all make mistakes and need to ask God for forgiveness, but it is readily available if we are sincere, but we cannot please ourselves and God. God wants us to be wholehearted in our faith, as Paul was. But Felix didn’t want to change his lifestyle. He was like the people of Israel who wavered between following God, and the gods of the nations around them. They were chastised by Elijah, “Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him. ”But the people said nothing.”
I’m sure Elijah would say the same to us. We need to choose who we will follow.
Dear Lord,
Help me to keep my conscience clear before You and to be wholehearted in following Jesus. It’s easy to want to follow the crowd, but its more important to follow You. Help me to be steadfast in doing so. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.