Scripture:
Numbers 24:25 (partial)
As he reasoned with them about righteousness and self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was terrified…
Numbers 24:27 (partial)
… And because Felix wanted to gain favor with the Jewish leaders, he left Paul in prison.
Observation: Paul is telling Felix about life with Jesus Christ and this stirs Felix’s heart, making him question his beliefs. However, Felix is still more concerned about what the Jewish leaders will think, so he chooses not to ‘ruffle any feathers’ and act on what he is learning, but instead to step away from responsibility, and do nothing, leaving Paul in prison and taking path of least resistance.
Application: It’s so easy to look at this and call Felix a wimp. His heart was moved, this new knowledge brought him fear… he knew the right thing to do was to set Paul free, yet he wanted to gain favor with the Jewish leaders so he did nothing.
What am I doing nothing about? I can think of a few places in my life that I know the right thing to do, yet it is easier to sit and dwell on the status quo than make a change and do as instructed by God.
Hmmm. I think this passage could apply for standing up for God as well as pushing past status quo on almost anything.
Prayer: Lord, you know I have been struggling and sitting in a rut. And you keep nudging me, yet here I sit, moping some more. Forgive me for sitting still and not growing. Thank you for this reminder that I need to get moving and not just sit still, taking the easier route. Please continue to guide me as I get moving again. And thank you for loving me in success and when I feel like I’m just treading water, too.
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