Acts 15-17: Beaten with Rods

As a child, I endured the switch, but I highly doubt a switch compares with the rods of Acts 16:22-24:

22 The crowd rose up together against them, and the chief magistrates tore their robes off them and proceeded to order them to be beaten with rods.
23 When they had struck them with many blows, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to guard them securely;
24 and he, having received such a command, threw them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.

This was probably more akin to caning. They removed their robes, so the blows fell upon the bare flesh of their backs and legs. Paul and Silas must have had severe bruising and broken skin - major damage to the surface of their bodies. They must have been in terrible pain. After they had been thrown in prison, their feet locked in stocks (an added discomfort), you'd think they would secretly curse those responsible for their mistreatment.

But they SANG! They PRAYED! They praised God with their mouths; they did not curse men.

What a great lesson! When have I ever suffered like this? We went door-knocking last Saturday. There were a few people who made it clear they were not interested in listening to God's word. Did I grumble against them on my way to the next house? Did I praise God, thanking Him for the opportunity to serve Him?

What we say with our mouths shows where our hearts are. It shows our focus and our thoughts. If there is a lack of praise coming from my mouth, I should examine my standing before God. If I cannot praise God in my comfort, will I praise Him in my discomfort?

Will I praise Him though beaten with rods?

God bless,
Nathan

Tomorrow's Reading: Acts 18-20