A Different Route

Now I appeal to you, brothers, through our Lord Jesus Christ and through the love of the Spirit, to join with me in fervent prayers to God on my behalf. Pray that I may be rescued from the unbelievers in Judae, that the gift I bring to Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, and that, by God's will, I may come to you with joy and be refreshed together with you. Romans 15:30-32

This prayer was partially answered, the gift was well received but the unbelieving Jews in Judae were incensed by the unbelieving Jews from Asia and apprehended Paul and wanted to kill him.

Paul did indeed go to Rome, but in chains. He spent a few years in jail at the governor's residence in Caesarea. If Paul had gone to Rome as a free man he probably would have not spent two years in Casearea in the governor's residence, he would not have ministered to the Centurion and soldiers on the boat, he may have missed being shipwrecked on Malta and ministering to the people there.

God made sure Paul arrived in Rome but it took longer and went a totally different direction and involved totally different people. 

God's plans and ours differ at times. Paul was still loved by God, chosen by God, used by God, faithful to God. Yet his prayers for safety were denied. God was going to take Paul through the storm and make sure he was protected and able to minister to all those caught in the storm.

Don't resent the route. Enjoy the journey, as the Lord is with you. Amen!

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