Standing Firm with Joy
Scripture: Acts 13:50-52 (NASB95)
"But the Jews incited the devout women of prominence and the leading men of the city, and instigated a persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their district. But they shook off the dust of their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium. And the disciples were continually filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit."
Cowboy Wisdom
Paul and Barnabas didn't back down when opposition came, but they also knew when it was time to move on. Jesus had told His disciples that when a place rejected them, they should shake the dust off their feet as a testimony against them. So that's exactly what Paul and Barnabas did. They didn't argue, they didn't complain, and they didn't let it rob them of their joy. They simply moved on to the next town, still filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.
Here's something powerful to understand: Christians aren't doormats. We're called to be meek, but meekness isn't weakness – it's strength under control. Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly when necessary. They took a stand for Jesus Christ. They didn't stay silent in the face of opposition. But when the leaders misused their authority and drove them out, they didn't let bitterness take root. Their plans may have changed, but the gospel they preached remained the same. The message never changes, even when the method has to adapt.
The most remarkable thing about this whole situation is found in that last verse: "the disciples were continually filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit." Those jealous leaders tried to rob them of their joy, but they couldn't do it. When you have a real relationship with Jesus Christ, you have a joy that circumstances can't steal. Sure, you'll have struggles and hard times – the devil is always lurking about. But you'll have joy – the kind that comes from knowing Jesus, from being filled with His Spirit, and from being part of His eternal purpose. That's the joy that keeps a cowboy riding, no matter how rough the trail gets.
Questions for Reflection
How do you typically respond when your plans are disrupted by opposition or persecution? Do you lose your joy?
Are you a spectator or a participant in the work of the gospel? Are you sitting on the sidelines or getting in the game?
What would it look like for you to be "continually filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit" regardless of your circumstances?
Prayer Focus
Ask God to fill you with joy and the Holy Spirit that can't be stolen by circumstances or opposition. Pray for courage to stand boldly for Christ while also having wisdom to know when to move on. Ask God to move you from being a spectator to being an active participant in winning souls for Jesus.
