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“"A Double Life and Double Address"”

Thoughts for Today:

When Paul wrote his epistle to the Ephesians it appears he was literally a prisoner in Rome under the emperor Nero's control. We can safely assume that Paul had already experienced some level of suffering. In all probability, he was also well aware that if he continued to be an outspoken follower of Christ it might cost him his life and not just his physical freedom. Yet from Paul's perspective, whenever he suffered (regardless of the cause), it was always for Christ. The Bible scholar William Barclay accurately comments on Paul's attitude: "The Christian always has a double life and a double address."

By an outsider's evaluation, Paul was a prisoner of Rome. His living space, what he could do and couldn't do, all were being controlled. But that's not how Paul saw things. And the same thinking works for us as well. How so? It doesn't really matter how others see us -- it's how we view ourselves that makes the difference. If Paul looked at his circumstance from a human perspective, he most certainly would be depressed, and might even experience feelings of hurt, anger, alienation, isolation, disappointment, embarrassment, etc. Sound familiar? But not Paul. He had an eternal point of view. Paul knew that as a servant of Jesus it was his devotion that placed him in prison -- not something he did wrong. Therefore, the Lord was in control and not Nero.

Questions to Ponder:

I have to admit, I'm kind of happy that Paul had these types of experiences. Why? Because our Bible is a lot richer as a result. Through Paul's example we can learn how to handle all types of negative situations. Paul never allowed Satan (or Rome) to have the victory. God is in control regardless of the situation and what mistakes or missteps we might have made. Paul expresses this conviction when he calls himself a prisoner of Christ. How do you view yourself? A victim, captive, casualty, faultless bystander, or prisoner of your own poor choices? Whatever the situation, God remains in control. Do you believe you too are a prisoner of Christ? Are you devoted to Him in thought, word and deed? What will you do today to bring your will under His Lordship?

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.