Taking Responsibility

Press the play button to watch the video above or press 'more' to read the transcript of the daily devotion below. Please read Acts 24:24-25:12 (use your own Bible or use the link above to access the in-App Bible).

‘I have done nothing wrong’. Acts 25:10

Above are Paul's words on several occasions in today’s text. In scenes like Jesus before Pilate, we see where true power lies in the exchanges with Roman leaders and the man of integrity before them.

Felix and then Festus do not want to make a decision because it's in the ‘too hard’ category, so they obfuscate, prevaricate and then pass on. There is also a desire for monetary gain and a fear of offending the Jewish leaders. So, our passage ends with a passing up the ranks to Caesar.

Of course, it's always easy to criticise such weakness in a leader but I wonder if you have ever been in a situation where you haven't wanted to decide because it's just too hard. There are times when it's difficult to act with integrity because it is easier to please people. It remains one of the great challenges of leadership, in all forms, but especially politics where there's always another election coming. However, you don't have to be in a position of senior leadership for this to be the case. We all have power in our own homes, in our families, at work etc. There will always be times when we are tempted to just let it go and wait for someone else to take the responsibility.

This part of Acts is a reminder why this will never do for the Christian. When there is a decision to be made, in this case, to deprive someone of their liberty or not just because of fear of others, then the only action is the righteous one. You will note that we are told Paul spoke of righteousness to Felix who it says knew the ‘Way’ (the earliest name for the Church) and was disturbed by it. Truth will always disturb weak leadership when people know what they should be doing.

So, today may we acknowledge our responsibilities and resolve to use them. We may never have the power of Caesar, but we can make sure we do the right thing in all circumstances.

Let us pray: Loving God, by your grace help me always to make decisions for the good of all. In Jesus Name. Amen.