No one could ever accuse Paul’s opponents of being uncommitted. Their hearts are set on his destruction, even if it means taking matters into their own hands. They conspire to kill him and work behind the scenes to execute their plan. But they were not the only ones who were busy; God was working behind the scenes to bring their plans to ruin.

Paul’s nephew heard of the plot to kill Paul, so he went to Paul with the news. Then he told the authorities what he knew, which led to Paul’s deliverance. This reminds us of what Gandalf said in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey: “I’ve found it is the small things – everyday deeds by ordinary folk – that keep the darkness at bay.” God is glorified not just because He rescues, but in how He rescues. God’s light is pushing back the darkness. Evil is being overcome by good, and God wants to use an ordinary person just like you to do good. Obey Him today, however big or small it may seem (or how you may feel); for God delights to subvert the plans of the Evil One through the simple obedience of His children.

• How can you use your limited power and influence to do good?