The determination of evil is frightening (v12-13). Killing Paul was more important to these men than anything else. Sin has blinded their thinking.

Evil has not changed today in its determination to oppose the Gospel and Gospel ministry. We must have open eyes to see the spiritual war that is going on. We must not be ignorant to the ferocity of evil men.

Evil is also very clever (v14-15). A wicked plan to destroy God’s servant is hatched. God’s people need to be always very watchful and seek God’s wisdom, because the devil is smarter than us.

But God’s people should be confident, knowing that the God who rules over everything is watching over them. God is certainly more than one step ahead of evil. Paul saw God’s controlling hand overrule the schemes of evil (v16-22).

We need to be praying that the schemes of the devil within our own lives, families, church, community, country and in our world will be thwarted. Pray for God’s people to be discerning about the schemes of the devil. Pray for God’s people to be protected so that our witness for Christ will be protected. Praise God for his providential care.