August 13, 2009 - Acts 9:25

“But his followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall.” Acts 9:25.
The Jews in Damascus were so angry and disturbed at Saul, and the power of his words concerning Jesus as the Messiah, that they determined to have Saul killed. So the followers of Jesus in that city hid Saul for a time, and then, planned his escape. The only way that he could get away was by being lowered in a basket “through an opening in the wall” and this was done in the dark of night. But Saul was not one to shrink away from a good fight, even if his life was on the line. He must have known that this was not his time to fight, and he made his escape.
In the book of Ecclesiastes, the writer talks of a time and a season for all things. This was not a season for Saul to stand and argue the cause of Jesus Christ. He needed to be about other business, even if he didn’t exactly know what that business was. The time for a change had come and he had to move on. Later, Saul was to write that God will provide a “way of escape” when we are tempted, and I am sure that Saul was tempted to stay and fight, even if death was a possibility. But, the change of scenery did save Saul’s life.
I have had many different seasons in my life, when, as I look back, I began to see the tapestry that God has woven and the unique pattern that is my life. Looking back through the years, I have known several moments of God’s protection, even though I didn’t realize this at the time. It was only later that I began to see, even if it was dimly, God’s hand and care.
Questions to consider: As you look back on the seasons of your life, do you see God’s caring, protective hand? What season of life are you in now? Are you aware of His protection and care, even if it seems like you have to escape, like Saul?
Prayer: Father, thank You for protecting me, especially in those times when I am not aware that Your presence is with me. You are so vast and mysterious, yet You are caring and available. Thank You. Amen.