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If it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them

I am sharing a thought from my quiet time in hopes it may encourage you on a day that feels like a big day for our nation! I have always taken my right to vote serious but never really been much of an outspoken political person.  The current political events can be unsettling.  So I’ve been reflecting upon something that happened many years ago in the book of Acts that has offered me great comfort.

When the apostles had been brought before the high priest, and those who were with him, they called together the council and all the senate of the people of Israel. 

The apostles had been strictly charged not to teach in the name of Jesus.  But Peter and the apostles chose to obey God rather than men.  The officials were “enraged and wanted to kill them.” Acts 5:33

I hope you find as much encouragement as I do in what happened next.  You can read about it below from Acts 5:34-39 (ESV).

34 But a Pharisee in the council named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law held in honor by all the people, stood up and gave orders to put the men outside for a little while. 35 And he said to them, “Men of Israel, take care what you are about to do with these men. 36 For before these days Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody, and a number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was killed, and all who followed him were dispersed and came to nothing. 37 After him Judas the Galilean rose up in the days of the census and drew away some of the people after him. He too perished, and all who followed him were scattered. 38 So in the present case I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or this undertaking is of man, it will fail; 39 but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!” So they took his advice,

I find comfort in the reminder that God is in control and we cannot overthrow what is of God!  I am praying for our nation, for our leaders, and for you!

Copyright©2020, Gloria Stucky

Photo by Pedro Araújo on Unsplash

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