“None Of These Things Move Me”
Acts 20:22-24: “And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. BUT NONE OF THESE THINGS MOVE ME…”
As we come to celebrate the birth of our wonderful Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, we are surely aware of the apocalyptic turn of events in recent days. Just a few weeks ago President Putin was talking about using “tactical” nukes because the Russian military is performing so poorly in Ukraine, but now he is talking about using “strategic” nukes. Fortunately, many Russians are tired of this failed military venture.
We must not be intimidated by the madness of men. Our calling has not changed. We must keep our eyes on our Lord. Jesus invited Peter to walk on water and come to Him. Peter was successful—until he took his eyes off of Jesus and looked at the stormy waves. He was like so many Christians today who take their eyes off of Jesus and put their eyes on the issues of today. Peter’s focus then became concern for his safety and he began to sink (Matt. 14:22-33).
At this holiday season there is joy for all of us who remain fearless in the face of the encroaching storm. Multitudes of men and women, boys and girls, are lost and dying without the Savior. God calls us to a bold advance against the forces of darkness. “The gates of hell shall not prevail” against a Spirit-filled body of Christ (Matt. 16:18). In the words of the old favorite of many people: “Keep your eyes upon Jesus; Look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim; in the light of His glory and grace.”