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.
Paul had been very clear with those on the stricken ship about what God had promised; that every life would be spared if they all stayed together. However, it seems that some of the sailors didn’t believe Him so they sought to escape under cover. But Paul drew attention to their plan and their back door of escape was well and truly shut.
Sometimes we might not trust the plans that God has mapped out for us. Some people like to keep their options, and maybe even a back door, open. But that’s not God’s way for us, and so we shouldn’t be surprised if, like those sailors, we find that our way of escape is well and truly shut. If, in the course of time, we need an escape route, God Himself will supply it. We don’t need to go looking for it.
Dear Lord,
Help me not to seek out a way of escape in times of difficulty, but always to follow Your lead. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.