“Now when it was determined that [we (including Luke) would sail for Italy, they turned Paul and some other prisoners over to a centurion of the Augustan Regiment named Julius. And going aboard a ship from Adramyttian which was about to sail for the ports along the [west] coast [province] of Asia [Minor], we put out to sea; and Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica, accompanied us. The next day we landed at Sidon; and Julius, treating Paul with [thoughtful] consideration, allowed him to go to his friends there and be cared for and refreshed. From there we put out to sea and sailed to the leeward (sheltered) side of Cyprus [for protection from weather] because the winds were against us.” (Acts 27:1-4 Amplified Bible)
In this Monday Short meditation, I want to give you some advice that will be beneficial as you return to where life had you imprisoned before the July 4th holiday. When I say imprisoned, I am referring to that job that you are required to return to on Monday; the place where you are not free to do what you want, but it is where you must comply with the authorities over you. For those who do not work, the word imprisoned in the first sentence above refers to the routine that has restricted your going and coming, and you are not able to see your friends like you did this past weekend. One more imprisoned condition is what you have to go back to after your temporary escape during the holiday. You see, while you were surrounded by family and friends, you put aside the conditions and circumstances that you had been contending with, laid aside the problems and predicaments that plagued you, and situations that had you bound; situations that persisted when you had done nothing wrong. .
Well, here is the advice, inspired by the passage above. As you go back to your personal imprisonment, and the winds of adversity are approaching, or if you see that a stormy situation is ahead, rush to the reliable place where you can find shelter and protection. If you are asking, “Where is that place?” or if you are relating to the text and you are asking “Where is my side of Cyprus,” read the verses below. Have a great start to your week. Now, if you don’t feel imprisoned at present, I advise you to store this advice in your bag of solutions when the need arises in the future. Be blessed!
“Whoever goes to the Lord for safety, whoever remains under the protection of the Almighty, can say to Him, “You are my defender and protector. You are my God; in you I trust.” He will keep you safe from all hidden dangers and from all deadly diseases. He will cover you with his wings; you will be safe in His care; His faithfulness will protect and defend you.” (Psalm 91:1-4 Good News Translation)
Committed to the climb,
Mark L. King