In what ways can we rely on God's deliverance as Paul did? The Promise to Paul “ ‘I will rescue you from the people and from the Gentiles, to whom I am sending you.’ ” (Acts 26:17) Paul stood before Agrippa recalling Christ’s words on the Damascus road. The assurance was clear and literal: God Himself would step in, again and again, to keep Paul safe so the gospel could advance. God’s Deliverance: A Timeless Pattern • Exodus 14:13-14 —Israel trapped at the Red Sea, yet “the LORD will fight for you.” • Daniel 6:22 —God “sent His angel” to shut the lions’ mouths. • Psalm 34:19 —“Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all.” • 2 Timothy 4:17-18 —Paul, near the end of his life, still testifies: “The Lord stood with me… The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed.” Ways We Can Rely on God’s Deliverance 1. Protection in the Midst of Calling • Like Paul, every believer is sent (Matthew 28:19-20). • God never commissions without covering (Acts 18:9-10). 2. Rescue from Human Opposition • When hostility rises, remember He “rescues the godly from trials” (2 Peter 2:9). 3. Strength to Endure Spiritual Attack • Ephesians 6:10-13 links divine deliverance to spiritual armor He supplies. 4. Deliverance from Fear Itself • 2 Corinthians 1:10—He “delivered us… and He will yet deliver us,” freeing hearts from crippling anxiety. 5. Ultimate Rescue into His Kingdom • Colossians 1:13—He “rescued us from the dominion of darkness.” Our eternal security is the bedrock for present courage. Living Out This Confidence • Remember past rescues; keep a written record like Paul’s testimony. • Speak God’s promises aloud when opposition surfaces. • Obey promptly; protection is often linked to staying on the path He marks. • Encourage others with your stories of His intervention; it multiplies faith. • Keep the mission central. Deliverance is not merely escape but empowerment to keep sharing Christ. Key Verses to Memorize • Hebrews 13:6—“The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” |
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