Paul was placed on a ship so that he could make an appeal to Caesar. On his ocean voyage, he encountered a northeastern ( Acts 27:14) This is a storm with the wind force of a hurricane.  For three days they battled the storm, throwing over cargo and the ship’s tackle.  Then…..

Acts 27:20 “When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved.”

An angel of the Lord appears to Paul and tells him not to be afraid.  Paul would not drown because it was God’s will for him to stand trial before Caesar. It was not time for Paul to go home to heaven.  God had more things for him to do first.  Then angel then tells Paul that, “God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.”

Paul shares this news with the crew and encourages them by instructing them to keep up their courage.  Paul was encouraging some of who were his captors.

Well sure enough, on the fourteenth night the ship hit a sandbar.  Those on board were able to swim to shore and all lives were saved, just as the angel had foretold.

Dear Reader,
Here are my encouragements and thoughts: 

There may be incredibly dark storms in your life right now or coming soon, but if your eyes are on His will you will be safe.  God will not let the enemy snatch you out of the palm of His.  He has a purpose for your life.  I believe this is why I did not die last year.  I don’t think I have to stand before Caesar but I do think I have things He wants done before I can go home.  The same goes for you. 

Paul accepted the angel messenger’s word of safety and in turn encouraged and instructed those on the ship with him.  Those onboard witnessed Paul’s calm confidence and followed his instructions when they themselves were overcome with fear.  The confidence of the Lord is our strength and this was Paul’s strength when he faced the idea of a shipwreck.

So when you are feeling shipwrecked remember the Christian walk is one of faith and not emotion.  It requires us to have faith in God’s goodness, love, and His promises.  Your life might have to break apart like the ship Paul was on, but He will bring you to safety.  He will rebuild your life, just as He is doing in mine right now.                                                           


”For the LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared.

”   Proverbs 3:26                                                          


”I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of My hand.”   John 10:28  
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