PAUL---GOD'S MAN

One of the most interesting stories in the book of Acts is the tragic ship-wreck Paul experienced on his way to Rome.  Acts 27:30 tells us: " Some of the sailors tried to jump ship...Paul saw through their guise."

The ship met up with a horrendous wind and torrential rain.  The men aboard feared for their lives and many attempted to escape. But Paul met with them and warned them that they must stay with the ship or all would perish.  He explained that an angel had visited him assuring that all would be saved, but the ship would go down. Without any further information they trusted Paul.

To me, that fact is the most incredible of all.  Yes, they all were saved, each finding his own way to the shores of a small island.  Yes, the ship went down.  And yes, they trusted Paul, an aging man who spoke of angels, and a God who walked the earth, and was under arrest and being sent to Rome as a prisoner.  How is it they would trust a man like that?

Was Paul's countenance so holy that they trusted him enough to not jump ship? Wouldn't they just think he was.....different, even strange?

Were Paul's words so compelling and confident that they were like orders from a heavenly officer?

Or were his earlier warnings about weather and ships proven to be true, so why not listen to this new warning and trust it?

It may have been all of those things and along with them, knowing that the end may be coming, so why not give yourself one... more.... chance.  A long shot, maybe, but who's to know?  Or, just maybe, one or two might have said, "I'll take my chances and obey him.  I believe this man is a man of God."

Oh, to be a "man of God"!  Paul gave up his fame in the Jewish community.  He gave up his homeland.  He had to fight for recognition among the solid leaders of the new Christian community in Jerusalem and all of Judah.  Most of his career he was under arrest or being sought by authorities.  He had no family. Yes, his sacrifices were many.

But, he had been favored by God to turn from his own way, to doing things God'sWay. Many, many times in Paul's missionary travels he was turned from one direction to God's direction.

All of  Paul's directions from God, either a solid "yes"  or a firm "no", were  obeyed.  And not only Paul obeyed, but those who traveled with him, also, were obedient to God.  Thus, obedience and being available at all costs, was what made Paul.. God's Man.

So, my lesson for today, friends, is Listen and Obey!  And that will take some doing for my habits are strong.  But I must try, and even when I fail, I must begin again. I want to be a Woman of God.  So, I must.... Listen!  and Obey! That's my order for myself today! 

Wish me God's speed, I appeal to you!

Jo