More Important than Freedom

Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” _Acts 24:25

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Here was the imprisoned Paul’s opportunity.

He’s standing before the judge–the one who has the power to set him free.

If there was ever a time for a soft sell this seems to be the moment.

Of course, as an apostle of Jesus Christ, Paul had to be concerned for the well-being of Felix’s soul. But this was no time to offend, Paul’s freedom was on the line.

So what did he do?

“He reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come.”

Hardly the strategy for softening up a judge so that you can get out of jail!

But then Paul had a commission and calling that was more important to him than freedom or comfort. He understood that winning a few and losing a few is okay if you’re selling produce down at the Market.

But he also had a clear moral compass that reminded him that there are some things so important that personal comfort and liberty is not enough.

The ONE THING for today: There are not many things worth giving up your freedom for, but there are a few…knowing what they are and being ready to speak up is one of the solemn duties of life for the person who cares about more than their own comfort.