A Good Storm

When a gentle south wind began to blow, they saw their opportunity; so they weighed anchor and sailed along the shore of Crete. Before very long, a wind of hurricane force, called the Northeaster, swept down from the island. The ship was caught by the storm and could not head into the wind; so we gave way to it and were driven along. As we passed to the lee of a small island called Cauda, we were hardly able to make the lifeboat secure, so the men hoisted it aboard. Then they passed ropes under the ship itself to hold it together. Because they were afraid they would run aground on the sandbars of Syrtis, they lowered the sea anchor and let the ship be driven along. We took such a violent battering from the storm that the next day they began to throw the cargo overboard. (Acts 27:13-18 NIV)

We rarely appreciate a good storm; especially not when we're being battered about like a ship on a stormy sea.  Paul was being taken to Rome as a prisoner. His future did not look very good. He could either be drowned in the storm or be put to death in Rome. 

Indeed he was eventually put to death; but, in the meantime his course, as rough as it was, turned out for the good for many sick people on Malta. Ship-wrecked on Malta Paul was given the opportunity to witness to the power of God by healing many in the name of Jesus. Later, when as a prisoner, he arrived in Rome he had great opportunities to proclaim the Good News of Jesus. 

God had a plan for Paul; a plan for the good of many people. Through the storm on the sea and of life, Paul was a witness to the gift of life through Jesus the Christ.

Life can get pretty rough whether you are on land or water. When you find yourself in the midst of the storm remember "....that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." (Rom 8:28) It may not always feel so good at the moment; but, trust God to work it out. He does have a good plan for you.

God's Peace - Pr. J