Unnamed Hero

When the son of Paul’s sister heard of this plot, he went into the barracks and told Paul.

Acts 23:16, NIV

Over the years, as I’ve read and reread God’s Word, I cannot remember ever thinking about Paul’s nephew or even recalling that Paul had one in the first place! But God used Paul’s nephew, who is not mentioned by name, to save Paul’s life. He is an unnamed hero who was used quietly by God to carry out His will.

In Acts 23 Paul had an opportunity to defend himself to the Sanhedrin and declare his hope about the resurrection of the dead. This proclamation caused such a disturbance that the situation became violent. The commander was scared that Paul would be torn apart, so he ordered his troops to remove Paul by force and bring him to the barracks. It appeared that prison was the safest place for Paul. What an encouragement for us today. Even our personal prisons can be places of God’s provision when you and I cannot see what is ahead!

The biggest wow for me in this true story is the fact that God used Paul’s nephew in a mighty way to protect Paul. All the nephew did was remain available, willing, and ready to act when God revealed a need. This story illustrates the power of simple, assertive faith—nothing flashy.

Who knows, perhaps you and I will be unnamed heroes as we obediently walk by faith and do the right thing, which is whatever God says. Who knows, it could be that we will be recipients of God’s protection and provision through unnamed heroes. Who knows? God knows!

Our job is to stay tuned in to God’s voice so we can hear when He tells us to move from the background to the front line to serve Him. Talk about walking the line—His!

Let’s ponder this story today as we encounter unnamed heroes and be ready to fill that role ourselves as we walk God’s line!