What practical steps can we take to trust God's plans like Paul did?

◄ How to trust God's plans like Paul? ►

The Scene in Acts 23:25

• Paul is under Roman guard after a plot to kill him.

• Commander Claudius Lysias “wrote a letter with this message” (Acts 23:25) to transfer Paul safely to Governor Felix.

• Just the night before, Jesus had said, “Take courage! As you have testified about Me in Jerusalem, so also you must testify in Rome” (Acts 23:11).

• God’s promise in verse 11 drives the protection described in verse 25. Paul’s trust rests on that literal, specific word from the Lord.

Why Paul Could Trust God’s Plan

• A clear promise: Jesus personally guaranteed Paul would reach Rome.

• A sovereign Protector: Four hundred seventy Roman soldiers escort a single missionary, showing God rules over civil powers (see Proverbs 21:1).

• A consistent record: Paul had already seen God rescue him many times (2 Corinthians 1:10).

Practical Steps to Trust God’s Plans Today

1. Anchor confidence in written promises.

– Search, memorize, and speak verses that match your situation.

2. Notice God’s hidden hand in ordinary events.

– Paul’s safety came through a military escort and a legal letter.

– Expect the Lord to work through supervisors, courts, doctors, neighbors.

3. Obey the next clear instruction.

– Paul submitted to the escort and kept witnessing (Acts 24:16).

– Daily obedience confirms genuine trust (Psalm 37:5).

4. Rehearse past deliverances.

– Keep a written list of answered prayers and rescues.

– “I will remember the works of the LORD” (Psalm 77:11).

5. Stay connected to supportive believers.

– Paul’s nephew warned him of danger (Acts 23:16).

– Fellowship stirs up faith and perseverance (Hebrews 10:24-25).

6. Trade anxiety for thankful prayer.

– “Do not be anxious about anything…present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6-7).

– Casting cares on Him guards heart and mind.

7. Testify to God’s faithfulness.

– Paul shared his story before Felix, Festus, Agrippa, and eventually Caesar (Acts 26:22).

– Speaking out loud strengthens personal assurance and encourages others.

Promises That Fortify Trust

• Isaiah 46:10: God declares “the end from the beginning.”

• Psalm 138:8: “The LORD will fulfill His purpose for me.”

• 2 Timothy 1:12: “I know whom I have believed…and He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him.”

Living It Out This Week

• Choose one step from the list and practice it daily.

• Record evidence of God’s guidance as it unfolds.

• Celebrate each moment that confirms He is steering your path, just as surely as He steered Paul toward Rome.