“And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a centurion of Augustus’ band. And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us. And the next day we touched at Sidon. And Julius courteously entreated Paul, and gave him liberty to go unto his friends to refresh himself. And when we had launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus, because the winds were contrary. And when we had sailed over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia. And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy; and he put us therein. And when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over against Cnidus, the wind not suffering us, we sailed under Crete, over against Salmone; and, hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called The fair havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea. Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them, and said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives. Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul. And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice, and there to winter, which is a haven of Crete, and lieth toward the southwest and north west. And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete. But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon.” Acts 27:1-14 King James Version)
In this Monday Short Meditation, I want you to just to read the passages above and below, both from Acts 27. When you get more time, read the whole chapter for your edification. Today, I merely want to strengthen your resolve to press on, regardless of the storms in your life, quoting a few of the inspiring words spoken by the late Pastor, Dr. Gene Baker. This quote is especially applicable and meaningful when your church is being challenged or in your personal life as a believer you are being tested by the storms of life. (We all face them!) Dr. Baker’s words, spoken years ago, still speak today “Stay with the ship.” Keep this in mind! For if you stay with the ship, some call it The Old Ship Of Zion, call it the church, call it your faith in the salvation the Lord gave you, we will be safe. Have a great start to your work week! Tell yourself, “It is going to be alright after the storm passes! Amen! Be blessed!
“And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmovable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves. And the soldiers’ counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim out, and escape. But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land: And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.” (Acts 27:41-44 King James Version)
Committed to the climb,
Mark L. King