None Of These Things Move Me

And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
Acts 20:22-24

When my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer many years ago (by God’s mercy, nearly ten to be precise!), I was introduced to 5k races.  Such races are frequently held to raise money for various breast cancer organizations.  I had never run in races, but I was young and in shape.  How hard could it be?!!  When the thirteen-year-old son of some friends of ours ate me for lunch in my first race, I knew I wasn’t in as good of a shape as I thought!  One thing I learned early in my racing experience was that you had to pace yourself.  Too often, I would start off great, but the runners I would pass at the beginning of the race would end up passing me while I was walking and out of breath near the end.  To do well in the race, you had to understand what would be required of you and be conscious of the difficulty ahead.  That’s what Paul understood in our text above.  He was therefore well prepared for what was in store, and rather than the approaching suffering dissuading him, it made him all the more determined to run his race to the end that he might finish it with joy, affirming “none of these things move me”!

The difficulty Paul would face in Jerusalem as he followed the Lord is not unique to the apostle.  Contrary to what many preachers may say today, it is the common experience of all believers.  This teaching is so very necessary in our churches!  It was the burden of the apostle as he returned to the cities where he had previously ministered in Act 14:22.  The central theme of his message as he sought to strengthen and encourage them was, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.”  Too many preachers don’t understand the benefit of such instruction and wonder how it could possibly be encouraging.  Quite simply, it encourages because it is true!  Remember, “the truth shall make you free”. (Joh 8:32) The truth doesn’t bind us; it delivers us!  Imagine the discouragement when all men are told is that everything will be smooth sailing if they follow the Lord yet the reality turns out to be quite different.

When we understand what is required as we run this race, we will be well-prepared for the endurance that is needed.  Rather than deceive and hide the hard facts, we should faithfully declare that trials undoubtedly await the Christian, but the greater truth is that “the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us”! (Rom 8:18) Yes, as the Lord said, “In the world you will have tribulation,” but we have much reason for rejoicing.  Why?  Because He continues on to say, “I have overcome the world”! (Joh 16:33) Though there is difficulty and trial in this life, in Him we are more than conquerors. (Rom 8:37) So, hang on dear soul, and be ready for the wind and the waves.  Just remember, the Lord walked on them, and with one statement, He made them still!  As 2Ti 2:12 reminds us, “If we endure, we shall also reign with Him,” so may our resolve be that of Moses: “choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.” (Heb 11:25-26)

Jamie

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