THURSDAY July 17, 2025

Not Forsaken

But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
2 Timothy 4:17

Paul was forsaken by man, but not by God. He had this comfort: But the Lord stood with me. That is the best Person to stand with us in our trials! What did the wonderful presence of God do for Paul as he faced the hostilities of a pagan Caesar? God, who has promised to never leave us nor forsake us, stood by Paul and strengthened him.

Once again, Paul would have the opportunity to speak in Rome in front of Emperor Nero. He was one of the most tyrannical Roman Emperors in the history of the Roman Empire. Some scholars have recorded that he murdered his mother, and two of his wives. Nero set Rome on fire and blamed Christians for the tragedy. He then persecuted Christians cruelly and vehemently––tarring them and setting them ablaze throughout the city. Paul did not fear Rome or its tyrannical Emperor; the message of the Gospel would be preached and heard by many Gentiles. That was Paul’s call, “...he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15).

Paul knew his one purpose––to proclaim the Gospel message to the Gentiles. God would enable Him to finish his mission. When he preached the Gospel to Nero, the Gentiles who witnessed his defense would hear. They would watch him die for what he believed in, and it would make an impact on their lives. In the past, Paul had been delivered from the mouth of lions. God protected and watched over him. For what Paul now faced, his faith and trust was completely in God for whatever the outcome would be.

Know this: no matter what your circumstances are, you are never alone. As you face incredible odds, God will stand with you! What are you facing today? Are you ready to stand alone with no one but God by your side? The Lord will strengthen you; He is your deliverer.

The best of it is, God is with us.
~John Wesley~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!