In what ways can we prioritize God's wisdom over human advice today? Setting the Scene Acts 27 unfolds on the windswept Mediterranean. Paul, God’s proven messenger, warns that the voyage will end in “damage and great loss” (v. 10). Verse 11 captures the turning point: “But contrary to Paul’s advice, the centurion was persuaded by the pilot and the owner of the ship rather than by what Paul said.” The choice to elevate expert opinion above revealed wisdom barrels the ship toward disaster (vv. 13-20). Contrasting Voices • Paul’s counsel came from divine revelation (cf. Acts 23:11; 2 Timothy 3:16). • The pilot and shipowner spoke from experience, profit, and human logic. • The centurion, torn between two authorities, opted for the majority view (v. 12). Timeless Principle Whenever human advice collides with God’s Word, the believer must side with God—without hesitation, apology, or delay. Prioritizing God’s Wisdom Today 1. Make Scripture Your First Consultation • Proverbs 3:5-6—“Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” • Practical step: open the Bible before opening a browser. Let God’s revealed counsel set the framework for every decision. 2. Test Every Voice by the Word • 1 Thessalonians 5:21—“but test all things; hold fast to what is good.” • Filter news, podcasts, mentors, and even church traditions through the unchanging text of Scripture. If it contradicts God’s truth, discard it. 3. Invite the Spirit’s Illumination • James 1:5—“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given to him.” • Pray for discernment before acting on advice. The Spirit highlights red flags the flesh ignores. 4. Value Faithfulness over Convenience • Psalm 1:1-3 contrasts the blessed person, rooted by streams, with the chaff of worldly counsel. • God’s wisdom may seem slower or costlier, but it never shipwrecks the soul. 5. Submit Feelings to Truth • Jeremiah 17:9 warns that the heart is deceitful. • When emotions shout louder than Scripture, pause, repent, and realign with the Lord’s clear commands. 6. Seek God-Centered Counsel • Proverbs 11:14—“Where there is no guidance the people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” • Surround yourself with believers who love the Bible more than being liked. 7. Remember the Consequences • Acts 27:21-25 records Paul calmly reminding the crew of their earlier disregard. God’s wisdom stood vindicated. • Reflect on past moments when ignoring Scripture led to regret; let those memories reinforce obedience. Encouraging Takeaway Every day offers fresh opportunities to echo Paul’s confidence: “I have faith in God that it will happen just as He told me” (Acts 27:25). Choose His voice first, and avoid avoidable storms. |
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