Number 1-2; Acts 24

Acts 24:24-27

Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. As Paul discoursed on righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, "That's enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you." At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him. When two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, but because Felix wanted to grant a favor to the Jews, he left Paul in prison.


I'm sure Paul was well aware over these two years of talking with Felix he could secure his freedom with a bribe. But instead he stayed imprisoned for over two years and used these frequent talks to witness to Felix. Though Felix had fear as Paul spoke of the judgement to come, he pushed those fears aside and placed either money from Paul or approval from the Jews as a higher priority over getting right with God. I dare say Paul had much more peace and freedom as a prisoner than Felix did as a "powerful" governor.

Do I use my "imprisonments" as opportunities to do something God may want me to do in those situations? Or do I seek my own comfort and look for the easy way to "bribe" myself out of the situation? Am I keeping my priorities in line? What's at the top of my list? Power? Money? Comfort? Obedience? Righteousness?