Have you ever gone on a trip that was supposed to be restful and relaxing but instead turned out to be just the opposite? Maybe the car broke down or you got lost or the weather didn’t turn out?

276 people weren’t planning on what we’re told about in Acts 27. A major storm on open water that drove them way off course, they had to pass ropes under the ship to hold it together, they threw their tackle and cargo overboard, didn’t eat for close to 2 weeks, and gave up all hope of being saved! Wow!

And…the apostle Paul was on this ship in order to stand trial before Caesar. Paul could have bemoaned this situation,complained, become agitated and upset because things didn’t work out as he planned. But notice what he would have missed out on.

How much do you and I miss out on in life? How much do we miss out on when we look only to maximize our pleasure and minimize our pain in life? How much do we miss out on when we’re committed only to a life of ease and are upset when we don’t get it?

A pity party would have caused Paul to miss out on an opportunity to reach a bunch of people with the gospel. Instead, Paul shared comfort from the God whose he is and whom he served. Where are you at? Who in your life needs to hear that Jesus is their Savior? Who needs the comfort of peace that transcends understanding?

I guess it all depends on your goal. If your goal in trips is to have no problems and an easy time, you’ll probably be disappointed. But if your goal is to make memories and grow deeper relationships, you might not be disappointed. So what’s your goal? A life of ease? Or to know Jesus more and more and make Him known to others in every circumstance? If so, you won’t be disappointed!

Looking for opportunities to share my hope, just like you,

pastor