February 23, 2012 - Acts 22:24

“The commander ordered Paul to be taken into the barracks. He directed that he be flogged and questioned in order to find out why the people were shouting at him like this.” Acts 22:24.
The Roman commander wasn’t certain what to make of this man, Paul, who was cast away for dead by the Jewish crowd. The commander decided to interrogate Paul by flogging and, then, questioning him. Flogging involved being struck by a whip with three leather straps that had pieces of bone or metal attached to it. The trauma of a flogging was intended to bring the accused near death, and would sometimes kill them. They intended to flog Paul first and then ask questions of him.
I believe that flogging is an absolutely brutal, inhumane way to treat anyone. While we don’t allow this type of punishment to be executed in our culture, there is the distinct possibility that we emotionally “flog” some of those around us. I know that there have been times when I have done this to those around me, and, especially and most unfortunately, to those whom I love the most. I would “flog” them and then ask questions. This was totally cruel and uncalled-for, yet I did it. Fortunately, Paul spoke up about his Roman citizenship and avoided the punishment. I wish I could say the same about those whom I “flogged”. Repentance and forgiveness have been my necessary steps.
Questions to consider: Have you ever been emotionally flogged, or have you flogged anyone? If so, what was that like? What is the remedy for such actions? Is there anyone that you need to get straight with?
Prayer: Father, thank You for not emotionally flogging me. Please forgive me for the way I have treated others who bare your image. Please help me to walk in love with those around me. Amen.