Acts 20:24
However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.
Scripture Insights
I recently had the honor of sitting with a beloved elderly couple. The husband, on hospice care, struggled with every breath. As I stood beside them, searching for words of hope to share, his wife boldly declared: “God is good at every season of life, but especially in the last one.” Her unwavering faith in the face of personal suffering amazed me.
In Acts 20:24, the apostle Paul displays a similar mindset. Despite facing some imminent dangers, Paul remains focused on the faithfulness of God. Paul didn’t know the specifics of what lay ahead for him, but the Holy Spirit had already warned him that it would include chains and tribulation. Such forewarning from God might have caused anyone else to abandon the mission—yet Paul was undeterred! For him, proclaiming the good news of the risen Jesus was worth any cost, even his life.
Paul understood that, come what may, God would be especially good to him in the final season, and with that assurance, he continued running his race with joy.
Today’s Prayer
Almighty God, you know what we are facing today and the things that are around the corner that we have yet to face. Empower us through your Holy Spirit to joyfully stay on mission, trusting that you will be especially good to us even through this season.
—Gabriela Rodriguez
Lead Pastor, Trinity Church of the Nazarene (Oklahoma)
