July 22, 2010 - Acts 14:6

“There was a plot afoot among the Gentiles and Jews, together with their leaders, to mistreat them and stone them. But they found out about it and fled to the surrounding country. Acts 14:6.
Paul’s and Barnabas’ work among the people of Iconium was going well. Many people responded to the message of Jesus, and yet, many others were opposed to this message. These people were stirred up and desired to “mistreat (Paul and Barnabas) and stone them.” Once they discovered the plot, Paul and Barnabas pulled up their tent stakes and left for safety. There were times when they stayed to face those who were against them, and yet, there were times when they fled.
As I read this, I realized that I did not remember this scene of Paul and Barnabas fleeing for safety. For some reason, I thought that they always stayed to face those who were against them. It is comforting for me to know that Paul and Barnabas stayed at times to confront the opposition, and at times, they knew that they should flee. This encourages me to know that there are times when I need to stand up and face those that come against me and that there are times when I need to flee for my life, as Paul and Barnabas did. The important point for me is to have a sense of what God would desire for me to do in this situation and to respond with obedience. This is easier said than done!
Questions to consider: Have there been times when you sensed God leading you to stay and face, or to flee, a situation? What was the result of this decision? How did you know that God was directing you in this way?
Prayer: Father, please give me the presence of mind to know when I should flee or when I should stay and face different situations. Give me Your peace in the midst of the turmoil of these situations. Amen.