God And You
Ponder: How can you endure severe trials?
Scripture: “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial” (James 1:12 ESV).
Paul’s relationship with God enabled him not only to endure a fierce storm at sea, but to encourage others onboard. “And now I urge you to take heart . . . For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong, and whom I serve, saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul . . . indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.’ Therefore take heart, me, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me” (Acts 27:22-25 NKJV). Note:
*Paul Belonged To God.* He described himself as “a (bond) servant of Jesus Christ (Romans 1:1). A bondservant (slave) is owned by someone else. Paul’s owner was Jesus. Liberty-lovers like us cringe at the idea of being owned by anyone! But the sooner we accept that God’s ownership of us is a positive thing, the better off we’ll be.
*Paul Served God.* As a slave, Paul’s purpose was to do the will of his Master (Jesus). We flinch at the thought of subjecting our will to anyone else’s! However, we ought to swallow our pride and follow the example of Jesus, Who “did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:28). Life isn’t about doing whatever makes us feel good. If our hearts are right, faithful service to God will produce abundant good feelings.
*Paul Believed God.* For nearly two weeks the storm had pounded them. They had no idea where they were. “All hope that we would be saved was finally given up” (Acts 27:20). Nevertheless, when God’s angel told Paul that he and all the others would survive, Paul believed it. “The things which are impossible with men are possible with God” (Luke 18:27). Let us believe and trust the Lord. His word may not agree with human wisdom; but the Bible is right!
You belong to God. Serve Him! Believe Him! In doing so, you can endure even the worst of times!
Song: “In The Hour Of Trial”
Prayer: Father, we happily confess that we belong to You. Help us, we pray, to believe You, and to serve you as faithful servants, especially when severe trials come upon us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Joe Slater (Justin, TX)