What steps can strengthen our faith like Paul's in Acts 27:25? Faith Like Paul’s in the Storm Acts 27:25: “So take courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as He told me.” Listening to God’s Promises • Paul’s confidence began with a clear word from the Lord (Acts 27:23–24). • Faith grows where God’s voice is heard—“Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). • Practical step: Set aside daily, unhurried time in Scripture, treating every line as God’s personal, reliable speech. Believing God Above Circumstances • Waves and wind shouted “shipwreck,” yet Paul trusted God’s promise of survival. • 2 Corinthians 5:7 reminds us, “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” • Practical step: When facts look grim, rehearse what God has said out loud until His truth feels more solid than what eyes see. Speaking Faith to Others • Paul voiced his confidence, strengthening an entire crew (Acts 27:25–26). • Proverbs 18:21 teaches that “death and life are in the power of the tongue.” • Practical step: Replace fearful conversations with words that echo Scripture, turning worry circles into faith circles. Acting on God’s Guidance • Paul rejected sailors’ schemes (Acts 27:30–32) and followed divine instructions (Acts 27:33–35). • James 2:17—faith without works is dead. • Practical step: Align choices with God’s revealed will, even when obedience feels costly or illogical. Remembering Past Deliverances • Paul had a history of God’s rescue (2 Corinthians 11:24–27). Memory fueled present faith. • Psalm 77:11—“I will remember the works of the LORD.” • Practical step: Keep a written record of answered prayers and interventions, reviewing it when storms rise. Staying Focused on the Mission • God promised Paul he would “stand before Caesar” (Acts 27:24); the storm could not cancel that assignment. • Philippians 1:6—He finishes what He starts. • Practical step: Clarify the calling God has placed on your life and measure obstacles against His purpose, not vice versa. Resting in God’s Sovereignty • Paul’s calm rested on God’s absolute control—“just as He told me.” • Romans 8:28 asserts that all things work together for good to those who love God. • Practical step: End each day by entrusting unresolved issues to God, verbally acknowledging His reign over every detail. Putting It All Together 1. Hear God daily. 2. Choose belief over sight. 3. Speak courage. 4. Obey promptly. 5. Recall past victories. 6. Keep the mission in view. 7. Rest under God’s sovereignty. Practice these steps, and faith will stand firm—storm or calm—just like Paul’s on the deck of that storm-tossed ship. |
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