Conspiracy!  The next day after Paul was rescued from a Jewish mob by a Roman commander, more than 40 Jewish men made a solemn oath: to fast from eating and drinking until they had killed Paul.  (Acts 23:12-13)

Intrigue!  These forty plus men next visited the high priests and the Council (Sanhedrin).  They told of their vow to fast until Paul was dead.

Then these men involved the high priests and Council and they became a part of the plot.
(NASB) Acts 23:15 “Now therefore, you and the Council notify the commander to bring him down to you, as though you were going to determine his case by a more thorough investigation; and we for our part are ready to slay him before he comes near the place.”

What those 40+ men and the religious leaders did not know:
(NASB) Acts 23:11 “…the Lord stood at his (Paul’s) side and said, ‘Take courage; for as you have solemnly witnessed to My cause at Jerusalem, so you must witness at Rome also.’”

What can you and I know from this passage of Scripture?  God’s plans are never thwarted by the best laid plots of men.  We can rest secure in the truth of God’s words.

(NIV) Psalm 119:89-96

The Faithfulness of God’s words:
89-91“Your word, O Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.”
Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures.
Your laws endure to this day, for all things serve you.”

The Protection of God’s words:
92 “If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction.”

The Power of God’s words:
93-95 “I will never forget Your precepts, for by them You have preserved my life.
Save me, for I am yours; I have sought out your precepts.
The wicked are waiting to destroy me, but I will ponder your statutes.”

The Boundlessness of God’s words:
96 “To all perfection I see a limit; but your commands are boundless.”

Conspiracy!  Intrigue!  God’s plans and purposes are not stopped by men and their plots.  The conspiracy and intrigue against Paul was not accomplished.

Conspiracy and intrigue against God’s people is no surprise to Him.  He is faithful to His children.  He is our protection.  His power is greater than anything men imagine.

God’s words are worth your trust!