The Rock Church

Goads

“And when we had all fallen to the ground, I heard a voice saying to me in the Hebrew language, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads’” (Acts 26:14).

How many times have you read this verse and thought: what in the world is a goad? Well, a goad is a sharp spiked stick typically used to prod animals along. So kicking a goad, especially in sandals, is probably rather painful.

Some biblical commentators speculate that Paul’s conscience had been convicted by the testimony of Stephen. While he was being stoned, Stephen claimed to see Jesus, and in his final moments screamed, “Lord, forgive them!” And since Paul was the one leading the stoning of Stephen, I have to believe this had a profound impact on him.

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Unrestrained

“Then Jonathan said to the young man who was carrying his armor, ‘Come and let us cross over to the garrison of these uncircumcised; perhaps the Lord will work for us, for the Lord is not restrained to save by many or few’” (1 Samuel 14:6).

This verse really challenges me. I love how Jonathan seems to say so nonchalantly, “Come let us cross over…” Jonathan was such a stud, ready to walk right into the enemy’s camp without hesitation! Me? I usually feel like the robot in that old Lost in Space TV show: “Danger, Will Robinson, danger!” If I’m honest with myself, I have to admit that I allow circumstances in life to restrain me. Finances, poor health, lack of time, and even lack of faith can sometimes coagulate my courage, preventing me from stepping out for the Lord.

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Strength

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10).

Difficult circumstances often bring out the worst in people. I know that happens with me. I can be having a great day, but if something goes wrong with my car or my computer I’m suddenly snapping at my kids.

1 Samuel tells how King David and his men faced an extreme trial. They had marched for 36 hours straight, only to discover that their wives and children had been kidnapped or murdered and all their earthly possessions were stolen. NOT a good day!

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Posted in A Word from the Pastor by admin