SOAP 02/18/2012; Acts 25:11

Today's reading: Numbers 3,4; Acts 25

S)"¹¹ If, then, I am a wrongdoer and have committed anything worthy of death, I do not refuse to die; but if none of those things is true of which these men accuse me, no one can hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar."

Acts 25:11 (NASB)

O) How important is integrity? Just 2 verses before this, we read that Felix wanted to do the Jews a favor, and so he was looking to help them in prosecuting Paul. When he is investigating further, and questioning Paul directly, Paul is able to up the ante, so to speak. Paul is so certain of his innocence, because he was so innocent, that he's able to push back, in a sense. He's basically saying to Felix that he is so sure of his blamelessness, that he's willing to endure every measure of scrutiny and investigation. In doing so, he is also able to avoid another assassination attempt, as described in verse 3.

A) I hope I am never arrested for any reason. Having said that, it is not the motivation for me to uphold the law, so far as it follows the Bible. Obviously, as long as nothing in the Bible becomes illegal, my motivation to uphold the laws of my country are specifically because the Bible tells me to do so. But, even in ways that are less dramatic, I need to continue putting emphasis on maintaining my integrity and honesty. People who hate Jesus or religion will always look to demean or degrade Christians. Part of my purpose as a disciple of Jesus is to show people how being a Christian should be. I cannot do that if I am being a hypocrite.

P) Father, Your ways are good. Your instruction brings life and joy and peace. You don't make arbitrary or random rules for me to follow. Help me live my life out with integrity, Lord. Holy Spirit, instruct me in the ways of the Father. Show me the errors of my ways so that I can repent and be forgiven, but also so that I am giving the world a true reflection of who He is. Forgive me of my sins; help me walk in Your righteousness. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.