Having left the Ephesian elders behind, Paul and his companions sailed from Miletus for their final destination, Jerusalem. As they traveled, they sought out the disciples in the port cities they landed at to have fellowship and pray together. They loved Paul. Because of their love for him, they were deeply concerned. The Holy Spirit let the believers know what trials would come to Paul but did not direct him to avoid them. That would have contradicted the words of our Lord Jesus: “...whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it” (Mk 8:35b).

The disciples who loved Paul could not dissuade him from going to Jerusalem where God’s enemies awaited him. Paul appreciated their love and concern for him but decided enough was enough. He said, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus” (13). Solomon said, “Love is as strong as death” (Song of Songs 8:6). But Paul showed that his love for Jesus was stronger than death. He knew what he would die for, and thus, knew for certain what he lived for.
Application: Father, thank you for giving me Paul’s example of having a clear purpose and meaning of life. May I love Jesus my Lord and Savior more than anything in the world, even my life. Amen.
One Word: “To live is Christ and to die is gain” (Ph. 1:21)