Scripture
Acts 23: 1-5
Now looking intently at the Council, Paul said, “ Brothers, I have lived my life with an entirely good conscience before God up to this day.” 2 But the high priest Ananias commanded those standing beside him to strike him on the mouth. 3 Then Paul said to him, “God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall! Do you sit to try me according to the Law, and in violation of the Law, order me to be struck?” 4 But those present said, “Are you insulting God’s high priest?” 5 And Paul said, “I was not aware, brothers, that he is high priest; for it is written: ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’”
Observations
We find Paul sitting before a council and being tried by his own people; the Jews.. Not knowing who he was, Paul seemed to threaten the High Priest. In an instant, Paul reacted to the hypocrisy before him. He was then humbled as the people shared with him the true identity of Ananias. Paul was reminded of Exodus 22:28 which states, “You shall not curse God or a ruler of your people.
Applications
Oftentimes, I use to catch myself criticizing or judging those with authority over me. You never know how hard or demanding leadership is until you are in the same position. Before this job here at the church, I can not remember if I ever prayed for those that rule over me. Even though “it is written” to not speak evil of a ruler of people, my humanity tends to think that I know better than the perfect will of the Father.
When was the last time you prayed over someone in charge of you?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for those that you have put in charge of me. Remind me that we are all humans, and that we all come up short even in leadership roles. We are not perfect people. Lord, I trust your perfect will. You have shown us how to lead. I pray for the opportunities to lead like you. Amen