Shake it Off!

Monday, 2/21/11 – Numbers 8,9; Acts 28 – “Shake it Off!”

S - Acts 28:5,6 – “But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects. 6 The people expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead, but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds…”

O – Paul helped gather fuel for the fire and was attacked by a serpent, but God protected him. The enemy’s attack on Paul did not seem to surprise him or cause fear or confusion. It doesn’t appear that he shook the snake off out of terror. Obviously it was on him long enough for the people to take notice and make their remarks. It seems he was in peace, and chose to glorify God. The people who looked on no doubt thought the snake would kill Paul, but saw no harm come to him.

A – This incident reminds me of the words of Christ in Mark 16:18 “They shall take up serpents.” I believe God has equipped us in Christ to have our heart fixed and trusting in the Lord and in the strength and grace of the Lord we can shake off the attacks and temptations of the enemy, saying as Christ did, “Get behind me Satan.” People are watching our reactions and responses to our trials and tests.

P – Lord, teach us to keep our hearts fixed on You and the truth of your promises over our lives, so that when tests and difficulties come our way, we can respond in a manner that gives You glory and causes others to be in awe of Your faithfulness.