“Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus. And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.” — Acts 21:13-14
In this passage, Paul announced he was going to Jerusalem. The brethren pleaded with him to not go. They were looking after his safety, but Paul believed strongly that God wanted him to go, and he would not be persuaded otherwise. After confessing he was willing not just to be bound in Jerusalem, but to die as well, they realized “he would not be persuaded, we ceased.” This is a holy stubbornness.
There is a time to stand your ground and not move on or give in. Most of the times when one is stubborn, it’s because of pride and selfishness, which is not Biblically correct. The way in which we should be stubborn is to stand on what God teaches, not on personal preferences. Below are a few questions to ask yourself whether or not you should stand your ground:
- Is it your preference, or are you preferring the other person? Is the reason for your good, or the good of another person? Romans 12:10 teaches that we are to prefer one another, not fulfill our own desires.
- Is the reason a Biblical issue? If God’s Word doesn’t clearly make the issue one of importance, you should think twice before making your stand.
- Are you certain God has placed this in your heart? It’s always better to obey God rather than man, but make sure the issue is directed by God and not by personal gain, feelings, or pride.
Paul believed God wanted him to be a witness for Him, so his eyes, heart, and mind were set on going. May we be like Paul and stand strong when God leads. Be wise enough to examine your motives, and then follow what God wants, even when it doesn’t make sense or others don’t understand.
Here to Serve,
Jeffrey Bush