“But some days later Felix arrived with Drusilla, his wife who was a Jewess, and sent for Paul and heard him speak about faith in Christ Jesus. But as he was discussing righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix became frightened and said, “Go away for the present, and when I find time I will summon you.” At the same time too, he was hoping that money would be given him by Paul; therefore he also used to send for him quite often and converse with him. But after two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, and wishing to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul imprisoned” (Acts 24:24–27).
Felix, the Roman governor, already had some knowledge about the Christian movement (Acts 24:22). After all, his job was to keep an eye on things for Rome in that part of the empire. But up to this point, it hadn’t become personal. That was about to change. The apostle Paul is given an opportunity to share the word of God and Felix is confronted with a “come to God” moment.
Conviction can be frightening. The word of God has the ability to get us to face the call of God on our lives. “For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do” (Hebrews 4:12–13).
Perhaps the word of God has been working on your heart. Maybe it has exposed some dark areas that need attention and you too have been frightened. Don’t be scared! God is trying to open your heart to the truth (Acts 16:14). Righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come don’t have to be feared by the one who surrenders their heart to God.
God loves you!
Mike
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