Indecision that could harden the heart
But God has protected me right up to this present time so I can testify to everyone, from the least to the greatest. I teach nothing except what the prophets and Moses said would happen—that the Messiah would suffer and be the first to rise from the dead, and in this way announce God’s light to Jews and Gentiles alike.” Suddenly, Festus shouted, “Paul, you are insane. Too much study has made you crazy!” But Paul replied, “I am not insane, Most Excellent Festus. What I am saying is the sober truth. And King Agrippa knows about these things. I speak boldly, for I am sure these events are all familiar to him, for they were not done in a corner! King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do—” Agrippa interrupted him. “Do you think you can persuade me to become a Christian so quickly?” Paul replied, “Whether quickly or not, I pray to God that both you and everyone here in this audience might become the same as I am, except for these chains.” Acts 26:22-29
What made you think that delaying your decision obeying God is not a big deal? Do you convince yourself that no one is really affected if you put off deciding to follow Christ? Delaying making a choice to obey God can lead into an ultimate hardening of the heart. From our text, the Apostle Paul presented his testimony before the rulers of Rome explaining what made him decide to accept Christ as his Lord and Savior. Then Festus called him insane (v. 24). King Agrippa accused Paul of persuading him to become a Christian (v. 28). Previous to these encounters was with Felix who also delayed making a decision about Christ and eventually turned away completely (see Acts 24). Paul offered his prayer for them that they will change their attitude about delaying their decisions (v. 29). Admitting that procrastinating or putting off matters of eternal consequence is a serious problem. It is important to address feelings of doubt that you may have and confess that delay has a hold on you. Decide in your hearts to turn away from it and turn to God. Confession and repentance should be done together with a commitment to live a life of obedience following God. Read and meditate on God’s Word to overcome feelings of doubt and distress. Know where you stand before Christ and realize that what He wants from you is to have a personal relationship with Him. The Bible says that once you come to know Christ as your Lord and Savior, you become a new creation, led by God’s Holy Spirit, and you are no longer under the power of sin (Galatians 5:1). Jesus is not only your Savior but is also your Lord and He will provide all you need through His resurrection power so that you will have the strength to overcome your weakness (see 2 Peter 1:3; 2 Corinthians 12:9). All He desires for you is to experience the victory only possible through Him (Romans 8:37). Do not procrastinate by putting off accepting God’s invitation.
Blessings,
Noel De Guzman
www.my-wbc. com