You're Bound to Hit Storms

Scripture Focus: Acts 4:1-3
"As they were speaking to the people, the priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to them, being greatly disturbed because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. And they laid hands on them and put them in jail until the next day, for it was already evening."

Cowboy Wisdom:
A cowboy knows that storms come with the territory. You can't work cattle under the wide-open sky without facing some rough weather. The same goes for following Jesus—when you saddle up for Christ, you're bound to hit some storms along the way.

Peter and John weren't looking for trouble that day. They were just sharing the Good News after healing a lame man. But trouble found them anyway. The religious leaders couldn't stand hearing about Jesus' resurrection, so they threw these faithful servants in jail.

Here's the straight truth: progress brings persecution. When God's working through you, Satan's going to come after you. He'll use presidents and prime ministers, mayors and judges, even Sunday School teachers and little old ladies if he can. Our adversary is cunning, and he'll attack from without and within.
But remember this—knowing trouble's coming doesn't mean we back down. It means we prepare our hearts, trust in the Lord, and keep riding forward.

Questions for Reflection:

1. What "storms" have you faced when trying to live faithfully for Christ?
2. Have you ever been surprised by opposition from unexpected sources?
3. How does recognizing Satan as the ultimate source of persecution change how you respond to difficult people or situations?
4. In what areas of your life might God be calling you to move forward, even knowing storms may come?

Prayer Focus:
​Lord, give me the courage to keep moving forward for You, even when I know storms are coming. Help me remember that Satan is behind the persecution I face, not the people he's using. Strengthen my resolve to stand firm for Your kingdom, no matter what opposition I encounter. When trouble comes, let me not be surprised, but let me be prepared. In Jesus' name, Amen.