Opposition and Opportunity

When sharing the gospel, it seems that sometimes the greatest opportunities arise out of times of opposition and struggle. This is exactly what we see in Acts chapter 16, as the apostle Paul and his ministry companion Silas are thrown in prison for working to share the good news of Jesus. How do they react to this unjust treatment? They sing praises to God! They created such a curiosity among their jailers, the message of Jesus found an open door where previously there had been none. Is this perhaps why Paul says in Philippians 4, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"? There is a lesson for us here. Often when we face opposition, we turn away deciding the door is closed. Like water, we look for the path of least resistance. I hope, however, that we renew our faith as we learn that out of opposition arises opportunity.