Thanksgiving Inspires Courage
Acts 28:15
Mighty conquerors had returned to Rome over the Appian Way, bringing captives as proof of their triumphs. Now a prisoner came who was the greatest conqueror of them all. In fact, he was more than conqueror. Their works have perished and their names are forgotten. The work of Paul the prisoner lives on. He is immortal. "He belongs to the ages."
Paul probably had misgivings about the reception which would be given him in Rome. How his heart must have leaped for joy when the first welcoming delegation met him 40 or more miles away from the city and again when a second group came at least 30 miles on foot to bid him welcome.
Such heartwarming demonstrations caused the great apostle to give thanks to God. He had been delivered from death in the sea. The sting of a deadly serpent had been made a witness to barbarous people. The healing, helping ministry along the way was reassurance that God was with him. And now seeing friendly faces and feeling the warmth of kindred spirits opened up a fountain of thanksgiving in his soul.
Gratitude for past and present blessings always inspires courage for the conflicts of the tomorrows. Paul, under guard, dwelt two whole years in his own hired house and received all that came unto him. His guards and attendants heard, believed, and gave the message to others even in the palace. Centuries later, Christianity became the religion of the Empire. The prisoner was at last the conqueror.
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