From Trapped to Thankful

10 Mar From Trapped to Thankful

Read Acts 27 (NLT)
Thought for the Day: When life seems bleak, I can slow down and pray!

Although he would ultimately establish a legacy as the first great leader of the Early Church, the Apostle Paul faced more than his fair share of obstacles. First, he was forced to confront his own difficult past and make amends with the very Christians he had persecuted. Later, Paul faced a violent mob and multiple jailings. But through all of this, he understood that “to live is Christ and to die is gain.” So, rather than feeling defeated when faced with obstacles, Paul had the right perspective and was thankful for the opportunity to live faithfully.

In one of the most challenging moments of his life, Paul found himself on a ship facing obstacle after obstacle. Unjustly arrested, Paul was a prisoner under Roman authority. When seemingly out of nowhere, the ship experienced storm after storm, Paul tried to share Godly wisdom and insight with the crew… but he was outright ignored. Desperately trying to survive, the crew and passengers did all they could to keep the ship from sinking… except listening to Paul. In their panic and desperation, they even stopped eating. To say that Paul and all aboard the crew were trapped is an understatement. To everyone but Paul, this looked like the end.

Rather than joining in with the panic, Paul did had a great perspective: “Paul urged everyone to eat. “You have been so worried that you haven’t touched food for two weeks,” he said… Then he took some bread, gave thanks to God before them all, and broke off a piece and ate it. Then everyone was encouraged and began to eat.” At the darkest hour, Paul reminded the people to be thankful and he took the time to thank God for being faithful. And finally, Paul was listened to.

Let’s keep it simple. When we feel trapped, let’s follow Paul’s example. When life makes no sense, let’s slow down, pray, and thank God for His faithfulness.

In Christ,
Pastors Stan and David