October 7, 2024 Daily Dose of Discernment

“I was not aware, brethren, that he was high priest.’” (Acts 23:5)

By giving an order to strike Paul who is not yet proven guilty of a crime, the high priest Ananias violated the very law he has sworn to uphold. The apostle was justified in angrily snapping at him. But upon realizing who he was, he apologized and said no one shall speak evil of any ruler. He could have rightly defended himself but didn’t. He chose not to touch a leader in office.

To give deference to people not because of requirement or merit but on the basis of our benevolence is Christ-like. Let us take the initiative and extend kindness to everyone because we are partakers of Jesus' divine nature.