Good morning, friends.
Our verse for today comes from Acts 11:28, “And one of them named Agabus stood up and foretold by the Spirit that there would be a great famine over all the world (this took place in the days of Claudius).”
As a bringer of news, Agabus had the power to affect the public. As a foreteller of news yet to occur, he had an even greater ability to impact the decisions and direction of his listeners. In this particular instance, Agabus brings word that the future is going to turn harsh, and not just for those in his immediate vicinity. No, the entire world’s population is about to experience the painful, slow wasting away that comes with a lack of food. In fact, this famine that is on its way will not be the only one of its kind. During the 13-year reign of Claudius, there were no less than four famines that his people suffered through, with at least one of them stretching as far as mankind went. Now, if you know anything about the Roman rulers of their early empire, you know that they were not averse to the idea of wiping out any and all who might be a threat to their power. Claudius became Emperor through the murder of his nephew, Caligula, whose reign ended at the hand of assassinators from within his own senate and guard. And Claudius himself was most likely killed by his own wife to make way for their adopted son, Nero.
But while Claudius reigned, though he strove hard to expand the kingdom, limit his enemies, and display his own power and authority and that of Rome, he was powerless to prevent the fulfillment of the simple words of a man named Agabus. Despite the limitless resources and land of the Roman empire, nothing could prevent or undo the harsh effects of God’s control over nature. Enough food could not be planted whereas to keep it from wasting away to nothing and leaving the people to starve. Claudius, Nero, Caligula, Augustus, nor anyone else had the power to prevent what the Spirit said was going to happen. I hope you live in the reality that this same power is what is controlling your life. This same will to fulfill God’s purposes and declare His majesty is directing your present and your future. Controlling nature, as Isaiah would say it, is as a drop in the bucket. Your way is secure by an all-knowing Father who cares for His beloved. Don’t let simple worries and inconveniences rob you of that joy and comfort.
As we seek Him today, go forth with the real sense of God’s abiding presence and care with you.
Have a peaceful Wednesday.
#4 Rich Holt
Dad of Ripken, Koy, TrishaJean, Samantha, Kakie Holiday and Raleigh
Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them.
