“When two years had elapsed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And desiring to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul in prison” (Acts 24:27 ESV).
Paul was arrested in Jerusalem and delivered to Marcus Antonius Felix, the Roman Governor of Judea, at Caesarea Maritima. He was kept in custody there for two years, but was allowed the freedom to be visited and helped by his friends. Although it was the unscrupulous Felix who kept Paul there, hoping for a bribe and seeking favor with the Jewish leaders, surely it was God’s will for Paul to stay there for a while. For Paul had the freedom to regularly preach to Felix and his wife, Drusilla, the daughter of Herod Agrippa I. Paul also had the freedom to reach out to his Christian brothers and sisters in Israel, while being protected by mighty Rome from his Jewish enemies.
Caesarea Marítima (“Maritima” means “By the sea”) was the major seaport for the Judean Province. It was a beautiful place. Herod’s summer palace was there. And so was the summer home of the Roman Governor. Paul was able to expand his ministry influence, while living under Roman protection at this important crossroads in his ministry. Soon Porcius Festus, the new governor, would hear Paul’s testimony and ultimately send him on to Rome to appeal to Caesar.
What the enemy meant for evil, God meant for good (See Gen. 50:20). When we walk by the Spirit, we can trust God to determine our steps and deliver us from evil.
PRAYER: Dear Father, help us to see our circumstances through Your eyes. Give us Your peace and contentment when things don’t go according to our plans, knowing that You determine our steps. And knowing that Your will for us is better than our own. Strengthen us and lead us this day. In Jesus’ name, amen.