Scripture
‘No one had eaten for a long time. Finally, Paul called the crew together and said, “Men, you should have listened to me in the first place and not left Crete. You would have avoided all this damage and loss. But take courage! None of you will lose your lives, even though the ship will go down. 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.’ For last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me, But we will be shipwrecked on an island.” So take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as he said. ‘
Acts of the Apostles 27:21-26 NLT
Observation
We may go through a season or two that we may be going on a ride, and it seems like a disaster. After warning the captain and the crew of the ship Paul was on, they decided to go ahead with setting sail, although Paul knew it would spell disaster. Yet, when the hard times came, Paul remained steady and faithful that God would get him through. And because Paul remained faithful and did not just complain about the terrible situation, people were saved physically and could experience God’s grace and mercy. They were given hope through God’s message through Paul. Not only did this happen, but Paul could also share God’s message to those on the island they were shipwrecked on. God used the roundabout course and shipwreck to reach someone who wouldn’t have heard the gospel any other way.
Application
Let us also remain faithful and not complain about times we may face a shipwreck, even if not for our doing. God will use even shipwrecks to show others His love, grace, healing, provision, and protection. Our hearts will be open to what God wants to do through us in those situations if we remain faithful and focused on Him.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for sending me this morning about times I may face shipwrecks or roundabouts. Please help me to remain focused on You in challenging times and to be open to your direction and Word. I pray that I can be on to encourage others in times of challenge and struggle. I love you and ask of this in Your Name, Jesus! Amen!
