TUESDAY October 24, 2023

Plans to Sail

Then we went ahead to the ship and sailed to Assos, there intending to take Paul on board; for so he had given orders, intending himself to go on foot. And when he met us at Assos, we took him on board and came to Mitylene. We sailed from there, and the next day came opposite Chios. The following day we arrived at Samos and stayed at Trogyllium. The next day we came to Miletus. For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be at Jerusalem, if possible, on the Day of Pentecost.
Acts 20:13-16

Paul decided to walk 20 miles to Assos, an ancient Greek city, while the rest of his company traveled 30 miles by sea to the same destination. He told them, “I will meet you there.” I assume that Paul wanted to be alone. As he walked alone, nobody could disturb him. Paul had plenty of time to meditate and think. Knowing he was going to face persecution and death in Jerusalem, I am sure he wanted to reflect on things and talk to God.

Later, Paul would give one of the greatest sermons he would ever give to the Ephesian elders. He needed direction. I believe God gave him this powerful sermon when he was walking alone––in communion with Him.

When Jesus began his ministry, He spent a great deal of time alone. He sought solitude with His Father: Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed (Mark 1:35). Before Jesus chose his Twelve Disciples, He prayed alone: Now it came to pass in those days that He went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God (Luke 6:12).

Many of the Psalms record David’s dependence on God. He knew the importance of seeking God early: O God, You are my God; early will I seek You... (Psalm 63:1). How did David his survive his difficulties? Prayer!

Do you spend enough time alone with God? Start your day with prayer, and before making important decisions, always pray!

The time you spend alone with God will transform your character and increase your devotion. Then your integrity and godly behavior in an unbelieving world will make others long to know the Lord.
~Charles Stanley~

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