Observation: As Paul explains his upcoming plans, he states why he is going to stay in Ephesus for some time ... there is opportunity for the gospel, and there is an opposition resisting it. Paul needs to stay because of both. If the work of the church there were easy they wouldn't need Paul, but it is because it is hard and being resisted by some adversarial force that Paul is needed to remain and labor in Ephesus.
Application: We see this all the time in our church ... that good works run into some kind of blocking force. This can be public attitudes, local government interference, and open distrust of all things having to do with Christianity. It is sometimes resistance - even criticism - from believers both at our church and other churches. And it can also be seemingly coincidental personal issues and tragedies for the staff that occur and the worst times.
We have learned that, when we see these kinds of adversarial forces, it means something good is about to happen. I am glad I have seen this, though it can personally hurt when such forces are directed at us. However, I am comforted that Paul recognized the same pattern, which is that effective work and adversarial resistance go together ... even that such resistance is the indicator of the opportunity for Christ.
Prayer: Lord, may your hand be upon the leaders of your church, both Evergreen Church and others throughout the area, nation, and world. The enemy attacks, but your love always wins. Amen.
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