Wed.’s Devo - Paul’s Journey to Rome

Read Ro. 1:8-13 Paul had heard stories of the faith of the Christians in Rome and asks for their prayers for his safe journey. He is coming to impart a spiritual gift to them that will give them a strong foundation. Paul has wanted to come to Rome for some time but God has not allowed him to so that he could produce fruit in Paul. James talks about that. He says that trials produce patience which is a fruit of the spirit. Just like Eve’s curse to bear children through suffering; we bear fruit through trials or suffering. In Ac 19: 21, Paul purposed in his spirit to go to Rome but he had to pass through Macedonia and Achaia and Jerusalem first. In Macedonia he ran into the man Demetrius who stirred the whole city against Paul. The mob seized Paul’s three traveling companions. Paul’s disciples kept Paul from entering the theater where the commotion was. Finally the city clerk calmed the crowd down and told them to settle this in court in a peaceful manner. Paul took that opportunity to leave town. He traveled teaching for months. In Troas he raised a man from death. In Ephesus he told his followers that he would be going to Jerusalem where he would be put in chains and face much persecution, yet he knew this was what he was suppose to do. He finally made it to Jerusalem and was arrested just as he said and put in chains. But before they took him to prison he was able to address his accusers and give his testimony. After several trials he appealed to Caesar. The road to follow God’s will was not easy for Paul, but he got to see God do great things through him. I’m sure he thought it was worth all the suffering. Lord, help us to give you glory in our trials and to trust your ways.