Jesus Knows

I was weary this morning after working 6 days. I had deadlines at work that merited a Saturday and thankfully I finished. But I woke up early this morning and my mind began to fill with all of the things I still need to do at work and the list of duties I need to complete for my conference in mid-May, not to mention the laundry I didn't get done yesterday. Still I decided to spend my Sunday morning as usual, sitting in my favorite chair drinking some coffee and getting ready for church.

I love my church and I really enjoy the messages our pastor presents. Today the sermon was entitled "Jesus Knows" and he talked about Paul's stressful visit to Jerusalem in Acts 23. Paul was brought by a Roman commander to appear before the Jewish Council on why he was accused by the Jews. Paul told them he was innocent and the priest had someone punch him in the face. Things were spiraling out of control, so the Roman commander took Paul to their barracks.

Acts 23:11 But the following night the Lord stood by him and said, "Be of good cheer, Paul; for as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome."

My pastor pulled 3 truths from this verse. 1) Jesus Knows Where You Are: the Lord stood by him; 2) Jesus Knows What You Need: Be of good cheer [courage]; and 3) Jesus Knows What To Do: you must also bear witness at Rome. When 40 had vowed to kill Paul in Jerusalem, Jesus knew what to do and saved Paul's life.

It was the perfect sermon for me today. Even with all of the demands and stresses, Jesus knows where I am, what I need, and what to do to get me there.