Today's Passage:  Acts 24

When we listen to the Holy Spirit and are obedient to His commands, we can be ourselves and have His favor and influence for His kingdom.

In today's passage, Paul is in Caesarea giving his side of the story of what happened in Jerusalem in front of Felix the governor.  The Jews from Jerusalem found their best orator to make the case against Paul, and this man pontificated compliments to Felix (basically "kissing up" in the worst way by implying living under Felix's rule in a Roman occupation was a wonderful and prosperous thing).

Perhaps Felix saw right through it.  When Paul got up to speak he did not gush over Felix but stated the facts of his case succinctly.  Whether Paul knew Felix was a Jew or not, his testimony worked in his favor, for he gave Paul many freedoms in his incarceration and did not release him to the Jews.

Certainly it helps to be wise with our words.  But it is important to remember as we walk in discipleship that we cannot create favor where God has not given it.  But where he gives it on our behalf, amazing things can happen.  Trust Him today to make a way... even if there is no apparent way just yet.