Not to us, O Lord, not to us,
….but to your name goes all the glory
….for your unfailing love and faithfulness. Psalm 115:1 NLT

Acts 27:13-25 (<<click here to read the passage)

Being the human beings we are, most of us are quick to spout off, “I told you so!” if we advised someone against doing something which we thought would not turn out well. There is usually a tug-of-war where one party is bent on doing something that the other party believes to be a bad idea. In some instances, it is foolishness to act, while other times there is a risk no matter what and a fairly equal chance of success or failure.

It’s easy to make sure the “I told you so!” comes through loud and clear. But it may be far more prudent, when things turn sour, to refrain and console instead. And beyond prudent, it is probably much more kind and loving in our response and not add insult to injury, as they say.

As we continue with the saga of Paul’s story, when he speaks to all aboard regarding the circumstances in which they find themselves, we might be tempted to think that this is an “I told you so” moment, but in reality, it is more of a “take heart” moment. Paul is spelling it out very clearly that the God to whom [he] belong[s] and whom [he] serves is truly almighty and all-knowing. And though they did not heed His direction earlier, He in His goodness…granted safety to everyone on board. vs23 and 24

I can’t get past verse 25. The God who had warned them – this God who has the whole world in His hands was with them. I can see Paul amidst the storm standing tall and without one bit of hesitation proclaiming, “So take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as he said.” NLT

There are storms all around us. Cancer. Illness. Aging bodies not functioning in ways we are used to. Mental degradation. Insurmountable financial circumstances. Schisms and seemingly irreparable damage in families and relationships. Serious, polarizing political controversies. Violence on every hand. We may cling to family or science or our own determination, but the only sure thing we can hang on to…is God. For those of us who have given ourselves over to Him, even if the storm takes us, we have the unshakeable assurance that as God has been with us, we will be with Him! “So take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as he said.” Amen!

Aug 17th, 2022, Wed, 9:06 pm