June 17

Courage In Life's Storms

For just last night an angel of God, whose I am and whom I serve, stood beside me and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar. And look, God has granted you the lives of all who sail with you.’ So take courage, men, for I believe God that it will happen just as He told me. — Acts 27:23-25 BSB

A young boy asked his mother, “What is fear like? I’ve never seen him.”

Paul might have said something similar because his life was hidden with Christ in God. He had learned to recognize Christ’s voice. Not everyone can do this—it requires a trained ear and an obedient will. Throughout his Christian life, Paul found strength and comfort through special revelations. In the dark storm of his trials, Christ’s angel stood by his side, bringing words of encouragement. There is no storm in life that doesn’t also bring God’s angels to help us, even if we cannot see them or hear their voices. The only requirement for angelic help is that we belong to their Master, able to say, “Whose I am and Whom I serve.”

The prayer of faith. In Acts 27:24, the Revised Version uses the word “granted.” It means that Paul had asked, and God had granted his prayer. What a promise! It is said of Frances Havergal that during a visit to a household where none were Christians, she prayed and, before her stay ended, the entire family had come to faith. We too can claim that all who sail with us in the ship of our life will become God’s children.

The courage of faith works with common sense. Though Paul had God’s assurance, he still did all he could, as if it depended on his own wisdom. Faith should never lead us to act recklessly or foolishly. The heart that trusts God will be filled with holy calm and quiet.

We will likely face many storms before reaching the safe harbor of eternity, but even in the fiercest storms, there is a point of rest in the heart of the cyclone. Likewise, we can find peace by hiding in the secret place of the Most High, singing Psalm 46.

Prayer

By day and by night, in life and in death, may I always be true to You, O Lover of my soul, my faithful Friend, my unchangeable Savior. Into Your hands, I commit my spirit! Amen.