THE RAGING STORM: PART 2 (TURNING YOUR STORM INTO AN OPPORTUNITY, EXAMPLE OF PAUL THE APOSTLE) ACTS 27

Acts 27:14(But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon. 20. 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. 22. 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) The storm of life is an inevitable occurrence in our lives as we go through our journey here on earth. It is important to know what do at this point in our lives because our approach toward the storms is what will determine the outcome. Some see their storm as a threat while some see it as a challenge, it all depend on our level of understanding and faith in God. Storms are meant to stop us from getting to our destination; It is Satan positioning people at every stage to stop you from getting anything done, it will look as if there is no way out, it is very discouraging because anytime you want to try new thing or take a new approach he will remind you that you are going to fail. He will be hitting you in all directions with troubles all at the same time, calamities, unnecessary hatred and disappointments, etc. At this stage the only way to know whether God is with you in the ship is that you will have inner peace. People will be watching to see how you are going to overcome and if you succeed they will turn to your God (Zech8:23). Apostle Paul took advantage of his storm to draw many to Christ (Acts 27:22-25). God used Jonah’s storm to turn the people in the ship to himself because their gods failed them (Jonah 1:14-16). At times when it comes to the issue of storm our disobedience cannot stop God from glorifying himself. Whether we like it or not his name must be glorified. Paul was a man on assignment, trying to stop him is a waste of time because he turns all his challenges into an opportunity to draw many to Christ. Even King Agrippa confessed that he almost become a Christian (Acts 26:28). In the middle of the storm he ignored Satan because he had trust in God that no matter what happens he will get to his destination. Apostle Paul’s approach to the raging storm is the best way to handle the storm of life. Every one of us should emulate him. It is very important to study those who have gone before of us in their journey; it helps in building up our faith. I believe that Apostle Paul remembered how God took advantage of Jonah’s storm to draw many to him. Paul did the same and it worked perfectly. Most of the time, in Satan’s effort to stop us he helps us to achieve our purpose in life, if we know how to take advantage of the situation. The storm did not bother Paul; while others were crying he was calm (Acts 27:34-37). He pleaded with them to eat. He told them that God has assured him of their safety. Luke 21:(13. And it shall turn to you for a testimony. 17. And all shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake. 18. But there shall not an hair of your head perish). Jesus has promised him safety. That’s all that mattered to him. Friends, no matter how tempestuous the wind is right now, it shall turn to you for a testimony in Jesus name. Focus on God, keep moving, and don’t be distracted. Jesus is in that ship with you and you cannot sink. But if Jesus is not yet in your ship, this is an opportunity to invite him into your ship to calm the storm. Lord Jesus, I come to you today, I am a sinner, I cannot help myself, forgive me my sins, cleanse me with your precious blood. Deliver me from sin and Satan to serve the living God. Lord Jesus, I accept you as my Lord and saviour. Now I know, I am Born Again, Amen. #womanyouarefree www.womanuarefree.blogspot.com neneisahoc@gmail.com