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Finding God in Adversity

“After they had gone a long time without food, Paul stood up before them and said: “Men, you should have taken my advice not to sail from Crete; then you would have spared yourselves this damage and loss. 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.’ So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me. Nevertheless, we must run aground on some island.” Acts 27:21-26

Our journey of faith does not happen without challenges. In fact, our greatest growth and greatest opportunities of giving a witness to the power of the Lord happen in the face of adversity. Paul had warned them not to sail, but the owners and captain of the ship craved their profits. And they would not wait. Now the ship was in such a fierce storm that the crew had thrown the cargo and even the ships tackle overboard to try and save their lives. It’s obvious that Paul was seeking the Lord during this whole time. And through an angel the Lord brought reassurance that not only Paul’s life, but the life of all with him would be spared. The result brought a witness to the sailors as well as the islanders who hosted Paul and the crew. In the midst of a terrible storm, the Lord was ever present.

When have you experienced the Lord in the midst of a storm?

Prayer Focus: Lord, thank You for being an ever-present help in times of trials. Knowing that we will face difficult times in this life, help me to look for You and trust You in the midst of the trials I face rather than impugning You for allowing me to go through that trial.

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