Devotionals by Chris Jordan

Here are just a few little nuggets/thoughts about some of what Paul wrote about his time in prison, and how I have found it parallel to my own life today.

“So don’t be embarrassed to testify about our Lord or for me, His prisoner. Join us in suffering for the good news by the strength and power of God.” (2 Timothy 1:8).

While I am in prison, I am suffering greatly. I have been robbed of my freedom, and I greatly miss being able to be with my family. However, as long as I am in chains’, my prayer is that I would faithfully testify about the Lord and share the good news about Jesus in His strength and power.

“But Onesiphorus was not ashamed of my chains. So when he arrived in Rome, he searched for me and found me. May the Lord show mercy to his house because he has often stopped by to refresh my weary soul.” (2 Timothy 1:16-17).

I can definitely relate to Paul’s appreciation for the young man Onesiphorus – no matter how weird his name may be! I know that every time I have a visit with a family or friend – whether it’s in person or by video – I am refreshed and encouraged. Visits, phone calls and letters are my lifeline!

“I have good news, brothers and sisters, and I want to share it. Believe it or not, my imprisonment has actually helped spread the good news to new places and populations… My imprisonment has instilled courage in most of our brothers and sisters, so they are trusting God more and have been even more daring as they speak the good news without fear.” (Phil. 1:12,14).

As much as I hate the fact that I am imprisoned, I know that there are people that the Lord has put in my path while I am here that he has specifically called me to minister to. Both those who don’t know the Lord yet, and those who know Him but need to be encouraged to grow in their faith.

“For my life is about the Anointed (Jesus) and Him alone. And my death, when that comes, will mean great gain for me. So, if it’s His will that I go on serving here, my work will be fruitful for the message. I honestly wouldn’t know how or what to choose. I would be hard pressed to decide. I lean toward leaving this world to be with the Anointed One (Jesus) because I can only think that would be much better. To stay in this body of flesh – even with all its pains and weaknesses – would best serve your needs.” (Phil. 1:23-24).

I can also relate to the Apostle Paul’s sentiment here as well. There are many days that the pain and suffering, loneliness and hopelessness are so great, that I just long for the relief that Heaven will bring. A place with no more tears, crying or sorrow! But I know that as difficult as it is for me, I’m still here for a reason, and until the day I die, I want to be found serving Him faithfully.

“Pray that God would open doors and windows and minds and eyes and hearts for the word so we can go on telling the mystery of the Anointed (Jesus), for this is exactly why I am currently imprisoned. Pray that I will proclaim this message clearly and fearlessly as I should.” (Col. 4:3-4).

Finally, one of the most important things I learned from the Apostle Paul in his imprisonment is the importance of soliciting prayer support! Would you please pray for me, for the Lord Jesus to give me wisdom, favour and boldness, and many opportunities to share my faith with those around me? That those who don’t know Jesus would be saved, and that those who do would grow in their faith? Thank you! (Chris Jordan).

(Scripture quotations in today’s devotional were taken from The Voice translation).