Paul and pauses (2)

Yesterday we read about doing what God is asking of us, even when we can't see how it'll make a difference. Paul sets a really good example when it comes to this (see Acts 27:9-21). The crew on board the ship, on the other hand, show us the importance of considering what God may be saying to us through others.

The officer in charge of the ship ignored Paul's warnings because: (1) Paul was a prisoner and seen as an untrustworthy source; and (2) The ship's owner and pilot were experts when it came to sailing. It seems completely logical, when looked at from their perspective, to carry on with the voyage and disregard non-sailor Paul's warnings. Thank goodness that Paul knew God's voice and continued to trust him in the storm.

How many times have we felt inadequate to share our faith because we think the person we're speaking to is more intelligent than us, and/or we're afraid we won't be able to show God to them? It's easier to listen to the voices that say we can't or that we're wrong than it is to listen to our church leaders or Christian friends telling us we can. Waiting on God is more than hearing God speaking directly to our heart/mind/ears; it's also trusting that we can hear God when he speaks through others. Let's be more open to that possibility.



So what now? Ask one of your Christian friends to pray for you, out loud. Listen for what God might be saying to you through their prayer.





— SCRIPTURE —

'The centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman.' Acts 27:11 NKJV
— SOULFOOD —

2 Chr 16-18, Mark 6:1-13, Ps 119:65-72, Pro 21:10-13