New Testament
Acts 20:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I served the Lord with all humility, with many tears, and through the trials that came upon me because of the plots of the Jews.
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Serving the LORD with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:
What Acts 20:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul reflects on his dedication to serving God. He emphasizes that he did so with genuine humility, showing that he was not proud or self-important. His service was marked by deep emotions, as he often cried over the struggles he faced. These struggles were not just personal challenges; they were intensified by the hostility he encountered from certain groups, particularly the Jews who plotted against him. This highlights the reality that serving a higher purpose can come with significant trials and emotional burdens. Paul’s experience teaches us that true commitment to our beliefs often requires perseverance through difficult times. His example encourages us to remain humble and compassionate, even when faced with adversity. It reminds us that our struggles can be a part of a greater journey of faith and service to others, fostering resilience and empathy in our own lives. Ultimately, Paul’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength found in humility and the importance of staying true to our convictions, no matter the challenges we face.
How to apply Acts 20:19 to your life
Consider how you can serve others with humility in your daily life. Reflect on the challenges you face and how they can help you grow. Remember that your struggles can inspire compassion and resilience in those around you, creating a supportive community of strength and understanding. Embrace your journey with an open heart and mind, just like Paul did. Your experiences can make a difference in the lives of others as well as your own.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Paul's story: Farewell at Miletus (Acts 20:17–38)
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Paul
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Acts 20:19
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 20:19 mean?
Acts 20:19 highlights Paul's commitment to serving God with humility and emotional depth. He faced significant challenges and opposition, particularly from certain Jewish groups, which intensified his trials.
What is the meaning of humility in Acts 20:19?
In Acts 20:19, humility refers to Paul's attitude of modesty and lack of pride while serving the Lord. It emphasizes the importance of being grounded and compassionate in the face of adversity.
How does Acts 20:19 relate to perseverance?
Acts 20:19 relates to perseverance by showing that Paul continued to serve despite facing trials and opposition. His experience encourages others to remain steadfast in their commitments, even when challenges arise.
What lessons can we learn from Acts 20:19?
From Acts 20:19, we learn the value of humility, the importance of emotional strength, and the need to persevere through trials. Paul's example teaches us that our struggles can lead to personal growth and inspire compassion in others.
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