Thoughts on the book of Acts (192) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they lightened the ship; And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship. And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away. But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me. Howbeit we must be cast upon a certain island.
Acts 27:18-26

Thoughts on the book of Acts (192)
Foreseeing grave danger for the ship and the crew, Paul had warned against continuing the voyage, but in vain. Paul did not fear for himself. He trusted the Lord's promise that he would witness for Him in Rome (cf. 23:11). This explains the apostle's calm attitude during the changeable, eventful journey. He felt secure in God's hand.
Meanwhile the ship had suffered badly from the storm and from the human point of view, the slightest glimmer of hope had disappeared, although part of the cargo had been thrown overboard. Then through an angel God confirmed that Paul would arrive safely in Rome and stand trial before Caesar. Moreover, not only Paul, but the entire crew would be rescued.
Paul had learned to trust God's promises through many experiences. He therefore gave the messengers and the crew encouragement, for God always keeps His promises.
(to be continued next Sunday)
Today's reading: 2 Samuel 13:19-39