ACTS xxviii. 14. “And so we went toward Rome.”
THESE words are connected with a wonderful chapter of
providences in the history of Paul.
I. We have the accomplishment of a long-cherished
purpose by the Apostle. From an early date in his ministry
his heart had been set on visiting the Imperial City. He
did not waste his strength on places of small importance.
In the economy of work he deemed it best to give himself
to those fields that would most speedily reward his labour.
If our consuming longing is for usefulness and not for our
own honour, God in the end will give us our heart’s desire.
II. Paul’s purpose was not attained precisely in the way
in which at one time he had expected it would be realized.
He did not dream of entering the Imperial City as a
prisoner. So we set our hearts on the attainment of some
post of usefulness, and we get it ultimately, but it comes
accompanied with something else of which we had no
thought—something which effectually keeps us from pride.
III. Though Paul’s entrance into Rome was not quite
what he at one time expected it would be, yet it really
accomplished all he desired. Let no one undervalue
his position, but use it, bonds and all, for Christ. Let us
struggle on with faith and prayer, for we shall either reach
Rome or something better.
W. M. Taylor, D.D.