Perspective is key

When I read scripture in the mornings, I am not usually looking for anything in particular to write about. I read. I wait. I listen. Often times the thing that stands out to me is repetition. Repetition of a word or phrase. But today it was repetition of a scenario. Paul is facing a bit of backlash while sharing his testimony on trial, and in three separate chapters, the same thing happens. People get angry, shouting starts and Paul is placed back in the barracks for protection.

“Some in the crowd shouted one thing and some another, and since the commander could not get at the truth because of the uproar, he ordered that Paul be taken into the barracks.”
‭‭(Acts‬ ‭21:34)

“As they were shouting and throwing off their cloaks and flinging dust into the air, the commander ordered that Paul be taken into the barracks.“
‭‭(Acts‬ ‭22:23)‭

“The dispute became so violent that the commander was afraid Paul would be torn to pieces by them. He ordered the troops to go down and take him away from them by force and bring him into the barracks.”
‭‭(Acts‬ ‭23:10)

What might feel like a prison could also be protection. Granted, Paul wasn’t treated the most kindly in chapter 22, where they actually put him back in the barracks and flogged him hoping to learn why the people were in such an uproar. But as I read this morning, how each time he was placed in barracks as protection — I wondered how often I’m able to see my current situation as protection instead of punishment.

His plan and purpose is not to harm us. What feels cruel could be the opposite. Perspective is key.