How should we respond when others misinterpret God's work in our lives? The Moment on Malta Acts 28:6: “But they expected him to swell up or suddenly drop dead. But after waiting a long time and seeing nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god.” • The islanders first called Paul a murderer (v.4) and then a god (v.6). • Notice the extremes: from condemnation to adoration—both wrong. Why People Misread God’s Work in Us • Limited knowledge—“The natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God” (1 Corinthians 2:14). • Cultural lenses—Malta’s pagan worldview defaulted to superstition. • Rapid judgments—Prov 18:13 warns, “He who answers before he hears—it is folly and shame to him.” Paul’s Example: Quiet Confidence, Consistent Service • Paul didn’t protest their insults or bask in their praise. • He simply kept gathering sticks (v.3) and then healed many (vv.8-9). • 1 Corinthians 4:3-4: “It is a very small thing for me to be judged by you… the One who judges me is the Lord.” Practical Steps for Us When Misunderstood • Stay steady—keep doing the next obedient thing God puts before you. • Let results speak—time and fruit will clarify God’s hand. • Refuse offense—Prov 19:11: “It is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” • Guard humility—don’t accept misplaced praise; redirect it to God (Acts 14:15). • Speak truth graciously when needed—Eph 4:15, “speaking the truth in love.” Other Scriptural Anchors • 1 Peter 2:12—“Live such good lives… they may see your good deeds and glorify God.” • Matthew 5:16—“Let your light shine… so they may see your good works and glorify your Father.” • Psalm 37:5-6—Commit your way to the Lord; He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn. Living the Lesson • Expect misunderstanding, but don’t let it derail your obedience. • Keep serving faithfully; God will vindicate His work in His time. • Ultimately seek His “Well done,” not the crowd’s verdict—Gal 1:10. |
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