Slices
Prepare
‘It’s not fair’ is a phrase frequently repeated by my daughters, and having witnessed natural and human-caused disasters first hand, I’ve uttered it myself. What circumstances cause that reaction in us? Our God is big enough to take it!
Bible passage
The plot to kill Paul
12 The next morning some Jews formed a conspiracy and bound themselves with an oath not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul. 13 More than forty men were involved in this plot. 14 They went to the chief priests and the elders and said, ‘We have taken a solemn oath not to eat anything until we have killed Paul. 15 Now then, you and the Sanhedrin petition the commander to bring him before you on the pretext of wanting more accurate information about his case. We are ready to kill him before he gets here.’
16 But when the son of Paul’s sister heard of this plot, he went into the barracks and told Paul.
17 Then Paul called one of the centurions and said, ‘Take this young man to the commander; he has something to tell him.’ 18 So he took him to the commander.
The centurion said, ‘Paul, the prisoner, sent for me and asked me to bring this young man to you because he has something to tell you.’
19 The commander took the young man by the hand, drew him aside and asked, ‘What is it you want to tell me?’
20 He said: ‘Some Jews have agreed to ask you to bring Paul before the Sanhedrin tomorrow on the pretext of wanting more accurate information about him. 21 Don’t give in to them, because more than forty of them are waiting in ambush for him. They have taken an oath not to eat or drink until they have killed him. They are ready now, waiting for your consent to their request.’
22 The commander dismissed the young man with this warning: ‘Don’t tell anyone that you have reported this to me.’
Explore
Fuming that a simple ‘guilty’ verdict could not be reached through the Sanhedrin’s legal process, hardline Jews muster to ensure results via murkier means: extraordinary rendition. Their religious zeal is, of course, misplaced. In seeking to kidnap and kill (vs 12–14), they would break the sixth commandment. The assassination plot isn’t even secret – it’s openly discussed with Jewish leaders who do nothing to rein it in.
Paul’s nephew gets wind of the diabolical plan, and soon secures an audience with the beleaguered army commander (vs 16–21). Whether through pity or pragmatism at not wanting to risk his troops being injured by another riotous mob, he prepares a counterplan to escort Paul off the premises, pronto.
Sadly, Paul is not unique in facing injustice, hatred and moments where life and death hang in the balance.
One in seven Christians around the world – more than 38 million believers – face persecution and discrimination for their faith (Open Doors, 2025). If you are among this group, know that you are seen and loved.
Those of us blessed with freedom must be faithful in prayer, in peaceful protest and in shining light into the darkest places.
Respond
Learn more about the persecuted church (through Open Doors, Release International or similar) and use a world map to help focus prayers of justice and restoration.
Bible in a year
Read the Bible in a year: 2 Chronicles 10–12; Ephesians 1
Pray for Scripture Union
Pray for Craig McPherson as he leads the Finance team. In particular, pray for a new process for managing holidays and missions’ expenses that they’re working on with the Holidays and Events team. Pray that this will make the running of these key events smoother and enable swifter financial reporting.
Because a strong start begins with smart preparation
Starting secondary school is more than new classrooms and new friends. It’s a season of growth, challenge and discovery. For some children, it’s exciting. For many, it’s overwhelming. And for all, it’s a defining moment.
That’s why It’s Your Move exists – to help children step into this new chapter with faith, courage and confidence.
For over 25 years, this trusted guide has supported more than 2.5 million children, offering practical advice, emotional guidance and encouragement rooted in Christian values.
Practical guidance you can trust.
Inside this 80-page guide, children will find:
✅ Real stories from pupils who’ve trusted God and themselves during the transition
✅ Guidance on friendships, confidence, homework and facing fears like bullying
✅ Space to reflect, pray and process emotions
✅ Encouragement and hope rooted in scripture
This isn’t just a book – it’s reassurance in their backpack.
Plus, every purchase includes instant access to:
✅ Student experience videos
✅ Assembly & lesson plans
✅ Creative tools to help children process the move
Secondary school is coming whether children feel ready or not. Let’s make sure they step forward grounded in faith, guided by hope and prepared with practical wisdom.
Get your copy here.
