Trusting God’s Power

…his incomparably great power for us who believe.

Ephesians 1:19

Paul wrote of God’s incomparably great power for us who believe. He also knew how to consistently draw upon it. One of those occasions occurred in the metropolitan city of Ephesus, a city famous for housing the popular goddess, Artemis. Cultic followers spent large amounts of money on images of Artemis. As Paul taught of the one true God, people began to follow God, and the idol craftsmen began to feel the financial pinch. 

When one craftsman, Demetrius, loudly protested Paul and his teaching, a riotous crowd gathered. The mob eventually moved into a large coliseum, one that could seat 25,000 people! Fortunately, the rioters didn’t fill it, but they did drag two of Paul’s traveling companions, Gaius and Aristarchus with them. For about two hours, the mob chanted, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” (Acts 19:34). Fortunately, the disciples talked Paul out of going into the amphitheater to try calming the crowd, and a city clerk eventually convinced the rioters to take their concerns to the courts. Luke described this event as “a major disturbance about the Way” (Acts 19:23).

God displayed His incomparably great power through protecting Gaius and Aristarchus from the frenzied mob. He also used the disciples’ wise words to redirect Paul away from the dangers of confronting the frenzied mob. God’s power made a way for Paul and his companions to escape. After the uproar was over, Paul sent for the disciples, encouraged them, and after saying goodbye, departed to go to Macedonia” (Acts 20:1). What tender moments they must have shared as Paul encouraged them! I’d love to know what Paul said to them. I’m confident he pointed out God’s powerful intervention for all three of them and encouraged them to continue to trust Him in the days to come.

God’s incomparably great power is still available for us today both in major events in our lives as well as what seems to be, in comparison, smaller events. It’s always accessible to draw upon as we look for ways of escape or for strength to stand strong. Thank you, Father, that we never have to go it alone! 

Linda Les