Scripture:
“and he said, ‘Don’t be afraid, Paul, for you will surely stand trial before Caesar! What’s more, God in his goodness has granted safety to everyone sailing with you.’ So take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as he said.”
Acts of the Apostles 27:24-25 NLT
Observation:
Paul was on a journey that was not smooth sailing in any respect. Though he was doing what the Lord directed him, it did not mean that he would not go through any adversities. The crew he sailed with decided to go against he warning not to sail lest there be loss. This decision to ignore Paul’s concern, was met with only adversity in every step along the way. Yet through it all, Paul trusted in God’s plan versus the trouble and loss in the circumstances befalling them. He held to the promises of the Lord and in turn, able to encourage those with him, that were drowning in hopelessness.
Application:
This is a reminder to me that in life, we have choice to trust in God’s promises and will or trust in what our circumstances. We need to place an unyielding trust in God that He will get us through whatever adversity we may encounter in our life. I know I have the tendency to look at things negatively and look for the worst case scenario which can often plunge me into hopelessness or paralysis. I freeze because of the fear of failure or facing adversity.
I am reminded that we are never granted a smooth ride in life, but even in adversity we are called to hold to God. It is more of a reason to draw even closer to God when we are faced with trials. By doing this, we are not only given hope in the Lord, but we are able to encourage and help others. We need to take courage and believe in the God who does what He says He will.
Prayer:
Dear God Almighty,
Thank you for your reminder that you are in control. That though what we see in front of us are storms and crashing waves, You still are holding us together. Thank you for giving us hope through adversity. Thank you for your promises! Thank you for doing just as You say You will! I ask for your help to trust in You daily even though things are tough. I love you and thank you for Your Son who through His sacrifice, has restored our relationship with You. Praises and Glory to You God Almighty the one who calms the storms and sustains us in them! In your Name, Jesus! Amen!
