"The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, " Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome." Acts 23:11

Paul was in a situation where everything appeared dark and unpromising. Acceptance was low and the path before him was closed. At that time, the Lord stood beside him and encouraged him. Paul was a true child of God who considered everything else trash. For him, his devotion for the Lord was the only important aspect in his life. Nothing else had any value for him. He was faithful to God and so God was faithful to him.

1. The Lord appeared beside him in the night. When there is darkness and uncertainty around us and when we are engulfed by doubts and threatening shadows, we can feel the presence of God with us. We are sure to have the abiding presence of God while we are surrounded by difficulties. May be in the full daylight we may not be aware of any light. But in darkness we easily detect light. Same way, we can feel the presence of God when we struggle in life.

2. God stood beside him. He did not leave him alone. When we lead a life that is pleasing to Him, we become His children. So God will stand beside us when we face any problem. We are not allowed to solve our problems alone. The people were against Paul but he had the greatest help with him. When God is with us no one else can be against us.

3. God encouraged Paul to be of good cheer. Paul did not know that right at that time 40 men were waiting to kill him but God knew that. In spit of this harsh reality, God encouraged him. In all things God works for the good of those who love Him. ( Romans 8:28)

4. The Lord's evaluation of Paul's work is seen in this passage. He says that Paul must testify in Rome as he has testified in Jerusalem. It is said that the reward of good work is more work. Sometimes what we do may appear insignificant and incomplete. But God who sees the inner motive, gives more responsibilities to an earnest worker. Rahab may be accused as a liar but God made a note of what she did. Her contribution is commended in Heb.6:10. The greatest commendation from God is "There is more work for you". What we get busy with here in this world, betrays our loyalty. May God bless us.