NOT EVERY STORM IS THERE TO DESTROY YOU
SCRIPTURE:
“For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!” (Acts 28:30—31)
OBSERVATION:
After going through a shipwreck and mistreatments Paul’s enthusiasm about his mission never wane. Paul was on his way to Rome to stand before Caesar was a very long and challenging ordeal. Paul could have quit the plan to go through and stand before Caesar, but he was determined that no matter what the issue was and the challenges were, he will continue. Paul’s commitment to see the message of the gospel reach the Imperial palace and he uses every opportunity to share his testimony with those around him.
Since he left Jerusalem to defend himself, it has taken Paul many mistreatments, plots to kill him, and a shipwrecked to finally landed him in Malta. There he again encountered a poisonous snake experience. Paul was accused of possibly being a criminal. Paul stayed in Malta for two whole years. One would’ve given upon their faith had they face the same ordeal as Paul. It’s like having a prison sentenced served before Paul even seen Caesar. How can a person endure so much and yet never lost or waver on his faith in Christ?
I have learned from Paul’s ordeal the secret to his endurance in the face of such a long trial and journey through unending circumstances. Before experiencing the shipwrecked, everyone on the boat were fearful and were about to abandon the ship. Paul warned them and told them not to react recklessly. Paul encouraged everyone that everything will be ok and even if the ship took water in, they will be ok. Paul was the only voice for reason when everyone on board were panicking and looking for a solution.
Two factors for Paul’s tremendous strength and endurance were, firstly, God was always with him. But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed. 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. Paul always acknowledges God whether things are good or not so good. Paul instead of being fearful of the situation, he was courageous and obedient to the voice and the direction of God.
Secondly, He was reminded by God of his PURPOSE and the GOAL of his journey. God reminded Paul that he will STAND BEFORE CAESAR. When God is in a journey, it doesn’t what STORMS we sail through in life, His purpose and goals will stand. No storms could ever prevent us from fulfilling what the Holy Spirit has intended for us to go through. When we are not clear of our purpose and goal, every storm we face will shipwrecked our journey.
APPLICATION:
I know that my journey is nowhere near what Paul has gone through, but I am learning from Paul today to persevere and endure. I learned from Paul that not every storms are there to destroy, but they are there to strengthen our resolved to face problems. Some storms are for correcting purposes, while others are for strengthening purposes. I will continue to see God’s purpose through the storms of life and to learn perseverance in faith.
PRAYER:
Thank you, Lord, for reminding me that storms often come in life with your purpose intended. Help me to see your purpose and goal in the difficulties that I see in life. Teach me how to be patient and endure. Help me to see your purpose clearly even though my circumstances prevent me to see you clearly. I ask that your Holy Spirit continue to lead me and guide me throughout this journey of life. I need you daily, Amen!
