So on the next day Agrippa and Bernice came with great pomp, and they entered the audience hall with the military tribunes and the prominent men of the city. Then, at the command of Festus, Paul was brought in.
Acts: 25:23 

When King Agrippa and Bernice arrived at Caesarea to pay their respects to Festus, Paul’s case was discussed, and the King said, “I would like to hear this man myself.” Festus replied that the King would hear Paul tomorrow. The next day, when Agrippa and Bernice walked into the audience room, everyone present must have gasped. They came in with glitter and gold, military leaders around them, and the who’s who of the city filling the crowd. It was a show of power, prestige, and image. But underneath all that sparkle, their hearts weren’t shining with proper honor. 

Then came Paul—chains on his wrists, no fanfare, no fine clothing. From the outside, he looked weak and insignificant compared to all that pageantry. Yet in reality, the most powerful person in the room wasn’t dressed in jewels—it was the man in chains whose faith and courage reflected Christ. Paul’s quiet confidence in God spoke louder than any grand entrance ever could. 

How often do we get pulled into the world’s obsession with appearances? Whether it’s the way we look, the things we own, or the titles we carry, it’s easy to measure worth by what sparkles on the outside. But God sees beyond the glitter. He treasures a heart anchored in faith, a spirit steady in courage, and a life surrendered to His glory. True beauty and strength aren’t found in appearances—they’re found in a life rooted in Christ. 

This week, let’s pray not to be dazzled by what doesn’t last and stay steady in faith, like so that even in our weakest moments, God’s strength shines through, reflecting His glory above all else.