Acts 27:27-44 It is amazing to me how much credibility and respect Paul had with the commander of the ship. Paul was a prisoner on his way to be tried and yet the captain of the ship he was sailing on listened to him when he told them if the sailors left in life boats they would die. The captain cut the ropes to the life boats keeping all on the ship. I wonder how the sailors felt about the preacher? Did they resent him? Did they trust him? The next morning when they could see the beach they tried to make a landing, but were caught on a reef. I love how the scripture said 42″the soldiers wanted to kill the prisoners to make sure they didn’t swim ashore and escape. 43But the commanding officer wanted to spare Paul, so he didn’t let them carry out their plan. Then he ordered all who could swim to jump overboard first and make for land.” The commander wanted to save Paul…Do you think maybe the preaching of the gospel had changed the captain? Do you think his new found respect was because God was stirring his heart? We aren’t told why he had such great respect, but we are told in the last verse, 44 “So everyone escaped safely to shore.”
Their safety was dependent upon their trust not in Paul, but in God. Wow, isn’t it the same with us. We may not be on a sinking ship, but our lives are definitely in stormy waters many days. Who are you trusting during your storms of life? Are you trying to get into the life boat of a secure job, your possessions or money, or even in a relationship? The only way to be saved is to put your trust in the Father. Listen for His leadership in your life and know though the waters may get rough, you will be saved.