Taking Advantage of Chains

“So we came to Rome. And the brothers there… came to meet us. On seeing them, Paul thanked God and took courage… Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier who guarded him…

“‘It is because of the hope of Israel that I am wearing this chain…’ 

“When they had appointed a day, they came to him at his lodging in greater numbers. From morning till evening he expounded to them, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and the Prophets… 

“He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.” Acts 28:14b-16,20b,23,30-31

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day…

“The Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8,17-18

Paul’s passion was the gospel, his Master the Lord Jesus. Because of his hope in the promises of God, he was reviled and imprisoned, but no chains could hinder his bold proclamation of God’s truth. The Lord had set free his heart and life, so he would freely serve Him, even if bound. He sought and seized every opportunity to share the goodness of God and glories of salvation. Whether expounding on the scriptures or encouraging individual churches and followers through written letters, he spent himself for the One who had saved him.

Convenience and comfort often dictate our choices. The culture preaches a life revolved around us, serving what we want and deserve. In the flesh, we despise restricted freedom and chafe against restraint and any situation we cannot control. What would happen in our minds and spirits if we looked for and took opportunities afforded in those very confining circumstances like nowhere else?

If we’ve been unjustly outcast or condemned, and suffer from hurt and anger or exclusion, what might the Lord reveal about where we find identity, security, and contentment? Maybe we feel imprisoned by a debilitating or chronic illness, or are suffering the life sentence of a fatal disease and the agonies of treatment. Whom has the Lord introduced to us in this unexpected season, and how have we radiated His hope and light? How has He met us in the quietness of isolation? Can we serve Him through praying, writing, telling of His faithfulness to those who care for us? Maybe we are stuck in a loveless marriage or trying work situation, and see no way out. What biblical promises can we apply? With whom can we share support and scriptural encouragement, and so build the Body?

With a fresh mindset, will we see chains as a gift from God’s providence? As an open door to deeper faith and witness? He works in and through them to His divine ends.

Lord, teach me to take advantage of the chains You assign, to strengthen Your kingdom and praise Your glory.