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PROVIDENTIAL INDIFFERENCE
MONDAY, MARCH 1
Acts 18:12-17

Mark 6:4-6

 

“And he marvelled because

of their unbelief…”

 

PROVIDENTIAL INDIFFERENCE
 
Our God is mighty to do things beyond man’s imagination. In Acts 18:12-17, He allowed even the indifferent magistrate to cooperate with His decrees. This providential act of God in the midst of evil and wicked intentions helped the believers in their work for the Lord. This is amazing to believers and astonishing to unbelievers.
 
Indifference to religion: This is another proof of the historical accuracy of Luke’s record when he referred to Gallio as the proconsul of Achaia. As to the assault against Paul in Corinth for his teachings, Gallio was not bothered by the Jews’ complaints. He was “no judge of such matters” (Acts 18:15).
 
The Jews failed in their evil intentions to have the Apostle executed by the Romans. Gallio probably thought what Paul warned later that the Jews have “foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain” (Titus 3:9).
 
Indifference to repression: The Greeks vented their madness at the chief ruler of the synagogue, Sosthenes. Although the cruelty was done before the deputy Gallio, he was not concerned about their violence. Gallio remained cold-hearted towards their actions and refused to condemn Paul. It was a sorry state for Sosthenes, but I believe Paul was more than glad to receive the beating rather than be executed by Gallio. Paul recognised Sosthenes in his first epistle to the Corinthians as a brother indeed!
 
God’s providential hand is able to control even the lives of the enemies. Read Paul’s explanation in Romans 9:14-16. Pharaoh was raised up in order that God might show His power. (Read Romans 11:33.)
 
Are there perplexing times in your life? How have you been dealing with people who are indifferent to you? Are you on the verge of giving up because of their cold-heartedness towards you? Trust that God allows them to come your way for a purpose which you will understand later. Do not underestimate your God Almighty!
 
THOUGHT: Am I harbouring grudges against some people?

PRAYER: Father, help me to love those I am struggling to love.

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