Re:Verse reading–Acts 20:17-38 (day two) Therefore, I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God. vs. 26-27
When Pilate saw that he was accomplishing nothing, but rather that a riot was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this Man’s blood; see to that yourselves.” Matthew 27:24
Similar words – much different motivation. Pilate didn’t want the blame, Paul carried a burden for humanity. Whenever we are motivated to act, what spurs us on? Do we act based on fear of the world or fear of the Lord? How often have you felt the urging of the Holy Spirit to speak only to quench prompting because of your own fear? We don’t want to get in to an argument. We aren’t sure how they will respond. We aren’t the most qualified to have these kinds of discussions.
Paul was fearless. He felt that nothing else mattered. He was never hostile, but he was not bullied either. He had a purpose to tell all he could about Jesus. Is our purpose any different? Have the rules changed at all? Are we innocent?
What a great leader Paul was! Paul led with tremendous responsibility, integrity and humility. He had no fear as he served the Lord with distinction. He would not feel guilty (he would be innocent) as he told everyone the truth about Christ. He did not hide anything. His conscience was clear. His heart was for Lord. His goal was for the Lord. He told all about Christ. He prepared his team to continue to spread the Good News and to build the church in his absence through leading by examples and through putting the Lord above self. He did what he was supposed to do for Christ’s sake and for the Gospel. He is free of guilt!
While some of our fears are basic survival and pain-avoidance, many fears as we all may know are literally in the mind. We should have no fear when we do our job well and we do. not for our own self-interests or personal ambitions but for a purpose that is for the common good. The danger is there but fear is not real. Fear prevents us from tackling the real issues as fear is an emotion. We cannot make sound decisions and step forward with confidence if fear is a controlling factor. Ask yourself, “fear what?” and try to understand the source of your fears!
Fear is a weakness. We are fearless when we put faith and trust in God, and never lose sight of the fact that God is present and He is present in all situations. Much fear comes from a sense of guilt. When we fill our hearts with love for the Lord, we are fearless. When we act with personal responsibilities, with integrity and humility, we are fearless. I am fearless! I will not be defeated by Satan!