God’s ability to use anyone for His divine purposes extends even to children. In Acts 23, we encounter a young boy who played a pivotal role in thwarting a deadly plot against the Apostle Paul. This story reminds us that age does not limit God’s power to work through us.
Today’s Scripture:
“And when it was day, some of the Jews banded together and bound themselves under an oath, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. Now there were more than forty who had formed this conspiracy. They came to the chief priests and elders, and said, ‘We have bound ourselves under a great oath that we will eat nothing until we have killed Paul. Now you, therefore, together with the council, suggest to the commander that he be brought down to you tomorrow, as though you were going to make further inquiries concerning him; but we are ready to kill him before he comes near.'” – Acts 23:12-15 (NKJV)
The Courage of a Young Boy
Paul’s life was in grave danger due to a conspiracy to kill him. However, Paul’s nephew, a young boy, overheard the plot and took immediate action. He went to Paul and then to the Roman commander, revealing the plan and ultimately saving Paul’s life. This act of bravery shows how God can use even the youngest among us to fulfill His purposes.
Steps to Embrace God’s Call for Children
- Encourage Their Faith: Children are capable of great faith and courage. Encourage them to trust in God and believe that they can make a difference. Proverbs 22:6 advises, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
- Listen to Their Insights: Often, children see things from a fresh perspective. Be attentive to their observations and insights, as they can be channels of God’s wisdom. Matthew 18:3 reminds us, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.”
- Support Their Actions: When children feel led to act, support and guide them. Their contributions can have significant impacts, as seen in the story of Paul’s nephew. 1 Timothy 4:12 encourages young people, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”
The Impact of a Child’s Actions
The young boy’s intervention saved Paul, allowing him to continue his ministry and spread the gospel further. This event underscores that God values and uses the contributions of children in His kingdom. It also challenges us to nurture and respect the spiritual potential within every child.
Conclusion and Prayer
Acts 23:12-15 demonstrates that God can use children to accomplish His purposes, often through their faith, courage, and unique perspectives. By encouraging their faith, listening to their insights, and supporting their actions, we can help them become powerful instruments in God’s hands.
Dear Lord, thank You for the faith and courage of children. Help us to nurture and support them, recognizing their potential to be used by You in mighty ways. May we all have the faith of a child and trust in Your plans. Amen.
