STANDING ON THE PROMISES
16th Aug 2017
When the Apostle Paul found himself in the middle of a severe storm, he put into practice principles he already lived by but now would save him and the lives of those who were on the ship with him. (Acts 27:13-44)
Paul knew what God had promised, Acts 23:11 in The Message says, “That night the Master appeared to Paul: “It’s going to be all right. Everything is going to turn out for the best. You’ve been a good witness for me here in Jerusalem. Now you’re going to be my witness in Rome!”
The storm raged and although Paul had warned the crew of danger, they ignored it and found themselves adrift and in danger of their lives. Wind and waves battered unmercifully for many days and they saw neither sun nor stars. Fear raged all around but Paul’s anchor was in his relationship with the living God who knows how to encourage in the midst of chaos.
Acts 27:23-24 says, “Last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you."
Because of that word from heaven, Paul was able to to encourage the ship’s company to eat, gain strength, to lighten the ship ready to run it aground, and they made it safely to the shore.
Here are the key points -
1. Remember the promises that God has given you
2. Keep listening for further instructions
3. Do the practical things in your situation
4. Eat and keep up your strength
5. Stand firm - when you have done all - wait - stand firm and see God at work
It was three months before Paul set off again for Rome, but throughout that time he proclaimed all God had done for him - what a testimony. Storms come in many forms; physically, emotionally, mentally - but let us follow Paul’s example.
My father-in-law at the age of 84 had a heart attack, was admitted to hospital and whilst we were visiting, I asked him a question. Is this it? Are you going to be with Jesus? What is God saying to you? Looking me straight in the eye he said words to this effect, “No I will live but I will have to change my life-style.” He had heard from heaven and lived another four years in peace.
This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.
by Joyce Sibthorpe
