I DON’T REFUSE TO DIE
But Paul replied, “No! This is the official Roman court, so I ought to be tried right here. You know very well I am not guilty of harming the Jews. If I have done something worthy of death, I don’t refuse to die. But if I am innocent, no one has a right to turn me over to these men to kill me. I appeal to Caesar!” (Acts 25:10-11 NLT)
It catches my attention, what happens in a man who has a radical experience with the Holy Spirit. Some characteristics that I see in the Apostle Paul are the following:
1. Eternal perspective.
Paul was not afraid of death. He said: “For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.” (Phil. 1:21 NLT)
2. Clear convictions.
Paul was of firm convictions.
While now it’s the contrary, the faith of some today is shaken by an offense, by gossip, etc.
3. Commitment.
Paul had a very high level of commitment, to the point that he was willing to die for the gospel.
Contrary to now, that many of us find it difficult to die to ourselves, it is difficult for us to die to some of our tastes, our comfort, etc.
4. Perseverance.
He didn’t give up. He was still fighting.
“I appeal to Caesar!” he said.
All this was because he was a man full of the Holy Spirit.
Think about it:
Do you know where you’re going after death?
Do you let yourself be affected by gossip and offenses or are you a firm person in your faith?
What level of commitment do you have in your service to God?
