The following night the Lord stood by him and said, "Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome."
Acts 23:11

Then he [the Roman Tribune] called two of the centurions and said, "Get ready two hundred soldiers, with seventy horsemen and two hundred spearmen to go as far as Caesarea at the third hour of the night. Also provide mounts for Paul to ride and bring him safely to Felix the governor."
Acts 23:23-24

The intrigue in this chapter is amazing. It gives us insight into the political divisions in Jerusalem at that time, to the inner workings of the Roman Empire in the outlying provinces, and the mounting fears of a Judean revolt against the Empire. And we get a glimpse of God working everything for His own purpose.

Paul had been designated in God’s plan to take the message of salvation right into the household of Caesar. Now, by God’s design, the Roman government provided him with a royal escort: 470 soldiers to protect him and even a horse to ride. He was a prisoner but was being treated like royalty. His life was in danger, but he was protected.

The safest place in the world for you is the center of God’s will. When you are where He wants you to be, doing what He wants you to do, you are safe.

Lord, my life is in Your hands. I will follow where You lead me; help me to do what You would have me do, speak as You would have me speak, and keep the attitudes that You desire to see in me. Amen.

Pastor Dan Giles