Deciding God's Way is Right

Scripture: But Peter and John answered them, "Whether it’s right in the sight of God for us to listen to you rather than to God, you decide." Acts 4:19

Observation: When Peter and John are commanded to never again speak or act in the name of Jesus, they say they are unable to stop speaking about what they have seen or heard. However, this sentence is their first response. It accomplishes two things. First, it simply juxtaposes the order of the Sanhedrin against the will of God, clearly defining the fact that their order is opposed to God's orders. Second, this sentences places the burden of deciding if they should obey back upon the Sanhedrin, effectively asking if they believe their authority is greater than God's.

In the face of personal danger, Peter and John simply tell their tormenters that ... they will obey God, and question whether or not the tormenters would agree with that decision.

Application: I am not often in a situation where I am persecuted in matters of faith. However, understanding and obeying the will of God is always the priority. There is never a right reason to not follow God's will, regardless of the pressures from others, or situations.

The challenge is understanding that direction in all matters. When interacting with others over earthly or secular subjects, I can't always tell what God's instructions are or how they apply. This is a good reason to pause and pray in the midst of such situations, waiting on the spirit to provide guidance.

Prayer: Lord, may I take time to pause for you in all matters. I know it is right to listen to you. May I make room in my mind and heart, and time in my day, to pause in order to listen. Amen.