When Will It Be Convenient?

Daily Reading:  Acts 24

As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, “That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” (Acts 24.25, NIV)

Devotional Thought: Pau was on trial before the Roman governor, Felix, who had " a rather accurate knowledge of the Way ."  Felix kept Paul in prison but afforded him some freedoms and showed him great respect.  During the next two years, Felix would often send for Paul and listen to his testimony about Jesus.

On one such occasion – early on in the process – Felix came with his wife and Paul laid out the case for Christ and encouraged them to follow the way of righteousness.  Felix was stirred, but not moved.  He replied: “That’s enough for now… When I find it convenient, I will send for you” (Acts 24.25, NIV).  The biblical record indicates that Felix often found it convenient to talk to Paul, and he sent for him.  But, he never found it convenient to say yes to Jesus.

How often are we stirred but not moved?  How often do we feel the tug of the Holy Spirit and pull away?  How often do we hear the still small voice of God but close our ears?  How often do we sense the call of Jesus to service but say, “Now is not the right time.”?  And, how long has it been this way?  A day?  A week?  A month?  A year?  Two years?  Will we ever find it convenient?

In those two years, I wonder how often Felix was stirred but not moved.  I wonder if the stirring became less frequent and less intense.  Should we trifle with this thing called “conviction”?  Should we ignore the King of Kings when he calls? What do we risk?  I urge you, if God has been dealing with you concerning a matter, do not delay!  Act upon it today.

Prayer: Forgive me, Lord, for putting off to tomorrow what you are calling me to do today.  Lord, today is the day.  I choose to obey you right now.  Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 77:10-15

10 Then I said, "I will appeal to this, to the years of the right hand of the Most High."

11 I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your wonders of old.

12 I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds.

13 Your way, O God, is holy. What god is great like our God?

14 You are the God who works wonders; you have made known your might among the peoples.

15 You with your arm redeemed your people, the children of Jacob and Joseph. Selah