It’s hard to keep up with all the places that Paul has traveled! In Acts 20 we find out that Paul had been traveling for three years! Wow, what a long time to be away from home, away from family and friends. Paul made so many new friends when he was traveling and sharing about Jesus and he is getting ready to go back home. But going back home wasn’t exactly going to be all that fun. Because going back home meant that he was probably going to go to prison. You see, there were a lot of people back home that didn’t like Jesus or the message that Jesus was King, the very message that Paul has been traveling the world to share.
We catch up with Paul in verse 13 as he is saying goodbye to the new friends that he has made. Paul takes this time to encourage his friends. He tells them that hard times might come, and that he knows he will probably never see them again. He reminds them of Jesus’ words that it is more blessed to give than to receive and then he prays with them.
It can be really hard saying goodbye to people who have become like family to you. Paul knew this would be hard for him and for his friends. But he also knew that a little bit of encouragement could go a long way.
Who is a friend that could use your encouragement today? Take some time to write a special note to your friend to let them know that you are thinking of them and praying for them!
Pray: God, we learned today that encouragement can go a long way. Please help me to find creative ways to encourage my friends and family when they are sad or discouraged. Help me to continue to live for you in everything I do. Amen.