How does Acts 27:44 connect with God's deliverance in Psalm 34:19? The Story in Acts 27 • Acts 27 describes Paul’s perilous voyage to Rome. • After a violent two-week storm, the ship runs aground off Malta and breaks apart. • Acts 27:44: “The rest were to follow on planks and various parts of the ship. In this way everyone was brought safely to land.” • Every one of the 276 passengers (v. 37) survives—no loss of life, exactly as God had promised through Paul (v. 22). The Promise in Psalm 34 • Psalm 34 is David’s testimony of God’s faithfulness amid danger. • Psalm 34:19: “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all.” • Deliverance is not occasional or partial; the LORD rescues from “them all.” Seeing the Same Hand at Work Parallels between Acts 27:44 and Psalm 34:19: 1. Affliction is real – David speaks of “many” troubles. – Paul faces hurricane-force winds, shipwreck, and human despair. 2. God’s deliverance is complete – “The LORD delivers him from them all.” – “Everyone was brought safely to land.” 3. God uses unexpected means – David is spared from Saul, Philistines, and personal failures. – Paul’s company floats in on broken planks—ordinary objects turned into instruments of salvation. 4. The righteous are kept for further service – David is preserved to become Israel’s king. – Paul survives to preach in Rome (Acts 28:30-31). Other Passages Echoing the Same Theme • 2 Timothy 4:18: “The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom.” • Psalm 91:14-16: “Because he loves Me, I will deliver him… and show him My salvation.” • Isaiah 43:2: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you.” Living It Out • Expect storms, yet trust the unchanging Deliverer. • Watch for God’s provision—sometimes as humble as a floating plank. • Remember: if He can save 276 souls in a shipwreck, He can handle the “many afflictions” you face today. |
    |