What moves us?

Based on Acts 19-20, Psalm 108

"And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God." Acts 20:22‭-‬24.

What disturbs us? What causes us to tremble? What hinders us from moving forward? Why is it that fear has so much power over us?

Paul was someone who seemed to always have a boldness about him. When he was working against God & His church, he held the coats of people stoning Stephen. He also sought out many Christians himself to kill them.

When Paul had his miraculous conversion, he travelled to many places. Instead of seeking out Christians to kill them, he sought the lost to convert them! Paul was no longer moved by his pride and fleshy nature. He was moved by the Holy Ghost, God Himself!

One thing is for sure in both cases-Paul was never moved by fear. He never let fear stop him from what he wanted to accomplish (good or bad). As mentioned above, he said:

"...bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God." Acts 20:23-24.

Not even bonds & afflictions could move him off course away from his purpose! He was joyfully willing to lose his life for Christ so others could be saved! Talk about a holy boldness!

"O God, my heart is fixed; I will sing and give praise, even with my glory. Awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early. I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: and I will sing praises unto thee among the nations." Psalms 108:1‭-‬3.

Paul's heart was fixed! He could not be changed or moved by the scare tactics of this world. He praised among the nations. He only feared GOD!

Let's dig deep today. Let's examine the things which truly move us. Scare us. Cause us to tremble. Cause us to lose boldness. Or maybe, like Paul, our boldness is misdirected. Maybe we are investing our time in things which aren't bringing God glory? Whatever the case may be, let's get back on course. Back on track!

I pray right now for each person reading this. That we would not be moved or scared to go where God is leading us. That we would not use our boldness against God's perfect Will. In Jesus Name!!!