Acts chapter 27 verses 30-32 (NIV)
In an attempt to escape from the ship, the sailors let the lifeboat down into the sea, pretending they were going to lower some anchors from the bow. Then Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, “Unless these men stay with the ship, you cannot be saved.” So the soldiers cut the ropes that held the lifeboat and let it drift away.
Acts chapter 27 verses 42-43 (NIV)
The soldiers planned to kill the prisoners to prevent any of them from swimming away and escaping. But the centurion wanted to spare Paul’s life and kept them from carrying out their plan. He ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and get to land.
There were two things that jumped out at me from this chapter. Some of the sailors were desperate to jump ship, but Paul got wind of their plans, and told them that it was God’s will for everyone to stay together in order to get to safety. That made me think of how we sometimes ask God to get us out of difficult circumstances, when actually His will for us is to stay put and trust Him to bring us through.
Secondly, we should never underestimate the impact our lives carry if we are genuine followers and Ambassadors for Christ. Here we read that but for Paul, the prisoners on the ship would have been killed but because the centurion wanted to save Paul, he would not let any of the prisoners be killed. What sort of difference can we make by carrying the Lord’s presence with us?
Dear Lord,
Thank You for reminding me that by staying close to You, You will bring me through difficult times and also impact lives of those who cross my path. Help me then to remain in Your presence rather than trying to find a way out. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.