Paul's Journey to Jerusalem - Pt. 10: I Know, and I Know
- Baptist Daily Devotional
- Nov 28, 2025
- 3 min read
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | November 28 2025 | Acts 20:22-27
KEY VERSE: “And now behold, I am going to Jerusalem, constrained by the Spirit, not knowing what will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every city that imprisonment and afflictions await me.” (Acts 20:23, ESV)
MESSAGE:
Today’s devotional reflection continues Paul’s heartfelt message to the leaders of the Ephesian church when he met them at Miletus. His words in this passage draw our attention to a profound truth: God does not conceal the realities His servants will face. Throughout Scripture, He prepared His people for both blessings and challenging moments. Abraham heard the promise of a great future in Genesis 12, yet he also heard of the long affliction his descendants would endure (Genesis 15:13). In the same way, when God called Paul, He made it clear that suffering would be part of his assignment (Acts 9:15-16).
Now, as Paul journeys toward Jerusalem, he speaks with deep conviction. He senses a strong pull of duty — a Spirit-led compulsion that he cannot ignore (Acts 20:22). At the same time, the Holy Spirit continually alerts him that “imprisonment and afflictions” await him (verse 23). This was not a single warning; it was repeated “in every city,” emphasising the seriousness of what lay ahead and ensuring Paul walked with full awareness.
Yet Paul’s confidence remained unshaken. The chapters after this segment show the accuracy of the Spirit’s witness: threats, plots, violent crowds, unjust detentions, and long seasons of waiting. Still, in Acts 23:11, the Lord stands by Paul with this assurance — God is present, God is working, and God’s mission through Paul will be carried forward.
Our passage today demonstrates that God prepares His people not to frighten them but to steady their hearts. The foreknowledge He provides is an expression of care, strengthening us to walk faithfully into what He has ordained.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Walking with God involves moments of joy and moments of challenge. He prepares us so our hearts remain steady and our faith remains focused. When God gives clarity about difficult seasons, He is not withdrawing His love; He is equipping us to stand firm. As you journey in your calling, trust His leading, rely on His presence, and keep your heart anchored in His Word.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus Christ, thank You for preparing our hearts for every step of the journey. Strengthen us to trust Your Word and to follow Your leading with faith and courage. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: TESTIFIES The word “testifies” comes from the Greek diamartyretai, meaning to bear strong witness, to affirm repeatedly, or to give solemn confirmation.
When Paul said the Holy Spirit “testifies to me in every city,” he was describing a firm and continuous assurance. This wasn’t a vague impression. It was a clear and persistent prompting from God—a steady confirmation preparing his heart for what lay ahead. God was not warning Paul to turn back. He was strengthening him to move forward with understanding and resolve.
Reflect on this.
Think about the gentle ways God confirms His direction in your life—through Scripture, inner conviction, or the repeated wisdom of trusted believers. His witness equips you to face tomorrow with faith.
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