The apostle Paul again shines as the perfect example of how to respond with a passionate heart for those needing to find the Savior, no matter the tenseness of the circumstance or the position of the person, Paul remained true to the Gospel and his mission. We are reminded from this encounter with Agrippa, that pride clothed in self-sufficiency will always lead one away from their need for God, such as in the case of this king of Israel.

By Dave Bartlett

When we walk by faith as Paul did, we will follow God's leading even if we don't know all the details of what may be ahead of us. The Christian life is all about "going...yet not knowing". In choosing to courageously obey God's directives we will encounter His eternal promises and purposes for our lives.

By Dave Bartlett

Once again Paul finds himself on trial, this time before Festus who wanted to deal with this situation quickly as well as find favor with the religious leaders. God's hand, is as always orchestrating and directing Paul's life, no matter who seems to be in charge. Paul knows he is to stand before Caesar Nero. Therefore, he trusted in God's plan and we are invited to do the same. The Lord is our strong tower and as we trust Him and run to Him, we will find safety.

By Dave Bartlett

Paul continues to declare his innocence of the accusations brought against him in theses verses. Because this was a matter of Jewish religious conviction and not a matter of Roman law, Felix refuses to give a verdict. We learn from Felix as well as another character that enters the story, Drusilla, that indecision upon hearing the gospel, will lead to  despair and eventually death. We also find encouragement to be like Paul, to not give up and rely on the power of God that lies within us. You are not alone!

By Dave Bartlett

Paul is facing the trial for his faith. He takes this opportunity to tie the roots of Christianity to the God of the Jews. He declared himself a fulfilled Jew because of the salvation afforded to him through the Messiah, Jesus. He was secure because of that salvation. We too, do not live with wishful thinking or blind optimism, our hope is grounded in something that has already happened. The finished work of Jesus on the cross. 

By Dave Bartlett

Paul's mission was to be a witness for Jesus Christ and to testify of His grace to Jew and Gentile alike. Paul walked by faith and was able to be committed to God's call, no matter what he would suffer. God orchestrated the unexpected, altered situations, changed minds, on behalf of Paul to bring about His ultimate plan. As we faithfully walk by faith, we can trust that God will lead us and use us, to bring His message of grace to those who are in our sphere of influence. 

By Dave Bartlett

One amongst many things we see at work throughout Paul's life and ministry is God's providence. God's divine guidance and care for Paul is undeniable.  We can also be confident that as we obey the Lord's directives for us, stand firm, speak the truth of His Word, we will experience His divine providence in our lives.

By Dave Bartlett

These verses reveal how God will use even our enemies to further the spread of the Gospel, perform His will and even protect His servants, when we are obedient and surrendered. The apostle Paul in the midst of chaos, experienced peace because he trusted in God as his source.

By Dave Bartlett

In a tumultuous world, faith is the way to get and keep spiritual feet under you, while keeping your eyes on the Pioneer and Perfector of our faith. 

By Jenny Nipper

The importance of inquiring of the Lord just as Elijah did. You can have a closer relationship with God by the manner in which you pray and see amazing ways in which God will answer. 

By Kenny Guidry