A Convenient Time #1024

Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” (Acts 24:25, NKJV)

Ah yes, a convenient time. “Not now,” says the heart that has been hardened by sin, when urged to repent. “I want to be left alone,” says the defiant soul who refuses to be snatched from the fires of sin and destruction. “Maybe later,” says the reluctant soul who has not yet taken full responsibility for his or her transgressions. Felix heard the truth of God and was terrified by its prospect, yet he would not yield his heart and life to it. Claiming to be interested in a more suitable, opportune time to believe and obey, Felix put off doing God’s will. From all we are told his convenient time never came. It never does. It is not convenient to obey the gospel. The heart must be changed. Sin must be admitted and ceased. Different living must begin. These things are not easy; they are not convenient. But, they are necessary if we are to follow Jesus (Lk. 9:23-25). Being saved and being a faithful Christian demands the focus and fortitude of faith to forsake the sins of the past and to live according to the will of Christ. Immediately, without delay. Especially when it is not convenient.

“A Convenient Time” #744

Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” (Acts 24:25, NKJV)

The convenient time sought by Governor Felix did not come. His opportune time was an attempt to secure a bribe for Paul’s release (Acts 24:26). The irony is rich. The innocent man – Paul – remained bound in prison for two years, while the guilty man – Felix – remained imprisoned by his sin. You seen, when we are confronted with the truth of the gospel, looking for a more favorable time to believe it and obey it betrays a lack of faith. Putting off obeying the Lord does not produce good fruit. Now is the opportune time; now is the day of salvation (2 Cor. 6:2). God is ready to save you and relieve you of your burdens of sorrow and sin. Today is the right time to put the Lord first, to do His will and to live in the freedom from sin He only gives (Acts 4:12).