Acts 23:11 The following night The Lord stood near Paul and said “Take courage! As you have testified about Me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome”.
Paul is in prison in Jerusalem as many Jews are plotting his death. He may be wondering if his time on Earth is done, ready to give up the hard work and frequent beatings. The Lord speaks clearly to him- take courage, there’s more I have for you to do- cowboy up, get back on your horse.
When do I hear this? The Lord often encourages me through His Word when I read it regularly, through praise songs that sing of His truth, in prayer time when I stop talking and listen to Him, and through friends. Be strong, be courageous, He is with me.
I rarely hear the specifics about the future that Paul hears here. The things He lets me know are that He loves me (1 John 3:1), He will never leave me or forsake me (Hebrews 13:5), and that I will be with Him in Heaven one day (John 14:3). For now, that needs to be enough to encourage me, and it is.
Thank You Lord for Your constant, encouraging, lavish love. Thank You for giving me the wisdom and courage for today and that I can depend on You to provide that each day. I love You.

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