Acts 24--Trials that last a long time

You thought O.J. Simpson’s trial took a long time? Paul's trial before Felix lasted for two years. There is no explanation of why he was there for so long. Our trials can often last a long time. God, if we truly believe him to be both good and holy, does not owe us an explanation for why they last so long. Can we stitch together an explanation tied his providence, the growth o f the church, along with providing time for Paul to theologically reflect and write letters, etc? Sure, but Paul never got an explanation. Are you holding God hostage waiting for an explanation for your pain?

Now there is instruction in this for us when we face conflict. Paul was careful to clarify the facts and defend himself based upon the truth of the facts. Yet as he defended himself, he didn’t become defensive.

This required courage. It takes courage to move into conflict and control our fears to the level where we can clarify the truth and not be bound in defensiveness.