When the Fire Comes
Scripture: Acts 8:1-2 "And on that day a great persecution began against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles."
Cowboy Wisdom: Just like prairie fires swept across the Great Plains with terrifying speed, persecution swept through the early church. The homesteaders feared those flames racing through shoulder-high grass, and the early Christians had every reason to fear Saul's rampage. He invaded homes, dragged believers to prison, and struck terror in their hearts. Stephen had just been martyred, and the grief was fresh.
Yet something remarkable was about to happen. What looked like destruction would become the very means God used to spread His gospel far and wide.
Sometimes the storm that scatters the herd is the same wind that carries them to better pasture. God's got a way of turning our running into His routing."
The old ranch hands used to say you can't stop a prairie fire by standing in front of it—it'll go where it's meant to go. Same with the gospel. Saul thought he could stamp it out, but he was just fanning the flames.
Questions for Reflection:
What "fires" in your life have you been running from that God might be using to move you toward His purposes?
How do you typically respond when facing opposition or difficulty—with fear or with faith that God can use it?
Like the early Christians who lost their homes and community, what losses have you experienced that led to unexpected growth?
Prayer Focus: Lord, when persecution and difficulty come into my life, help me remember that You are sovereign over every circumstance. Give me faith to trust that what looks like disaster may be Your way of spreading Your kingdom. Help me not to waste my suffering but to let it move me closer to You and Your purposes. Amen.
