ActsSample

Acts 27

What’s happening?

After Paul’s defense before King Agrippa, we read in Acts 27 that he is sent to Italy. This journey would be a long, dangerous, and grueling journey by boat. In fact, there were so many disastrous moments that the whole crew thought they would all die, and they lost all hope of safely arriving on land.

Though they despaired of life, Paul had confidence that God’s plan for him to testify before Caesar meant that he would not die. Afterall, that plan wouldn’t work very well if Paul was lost at sea. Instead, we read that God sent an angel to him with the promise that he and all the members on the ship would not die on this journey. As Paul speaks to the crew, he relays that God would not let even one hair on their head be damaged and encourages them to not lose hope. God kept his promise and everyone made it to dry land.

The importance of this story lies in God’s provision and protection in the midst of difficulty. We know that Paul was going to give testimony of the gospel before Caesar, the most powerful man in the world. Yet, when a storm threatens the lives of Paul and the entire crew, we wonder if God’s plan will fail. In that moment, God sends an angel to confirm his plan and assure Paul of his deliverance. God’s plan would not be frustrated. Strengthened by God’s protection, Paul led the crew to safety and everyone sailing with Paul through that storm saw God’s strength and power.

What do we learn?

In the midst of uncertainty, Paul’s trust in God is not in vain. God gives him the hope to persevere. Understanding God’s plan gives Paul the ability to look toward God’s provision and protection when difficulties arise.

What should we do?

It is impossible for us to see into the future. However, God knows all things. He knows the past, present and future. Even in the midst of uncertainty, hope can be found in Christ. We can trust that even if things do not turn out the way we want them to, God has a plan. Though he is working and moving in ways we can’t always see, we are confident in His provision in the midst of hardship.